June 25, 1925 - February 11, 2021
Clara B. Gaines, 95, former resident of Winston-Salem for 73 years, died in Lincolnwood, IL on February 11, 2021. She was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, Clarence 'Big House' Gaines; parents, Rev. Isaac and Emma Berry; sibling, Lennie Berry Williams (John W.); son-in-law, Raymond McDonald; nephews, Langston and Garrett Williams; and dear friend, Virginia Wiseman. She leaves her children to cherish her legacy and memory, Lisa Gaines McDonald and Clarence Edward Gaines (Cheryl); grandchildren, Loran and Ryan McDonald, Olivia and Garrett Gaines; god children, Caroline Lattimore and Kevin Wallace. Clara taught Latin and English at Atkins High School and later became a guidance counselor prior to retiring from East Forsyth. She was active in Phi Omega Chapter of AKA, Links Inc., St. Paul United Methodist Church and an honorary member Reynalda Rotary. She also volunteered at SECCA, Meals-On-Wheels and was a NC Museum of History Associate. Viewing for Clara Berry Gaines will be from 1pm until 5pm, Friday, 2.19.21 at Russell Funeral Home; you can view the private service at 11:00am Saturday, 2.20.21 on the Russell Funeral Home Facebook Page. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Clarence E. Gaines, Sr. Endowment Fund at Winston-Salem State University or to Forsyth Senior Services Meals-on-Wheels. Online condolences can be made at www.russellfuneralservice.com (RUSSELL).
Article in WS Journal a couple days after Mrs. Gaines' death:
https://journalnow.com/sports/college/wssu/clara-gaines-the-widow-of-big-house-gaines-has-died-at-the-age-of-95/article_d87814f6-6d3a-11eb-b7dd-1b80839b8317.html?fbclid=IwAR1uzCcHj0cqTviW53oC-Sciy2XQjDvASizsJG8uycLA4WpelgZ49HM5AQ4
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Steve Easter
Little did I know I was spending time in a room with Big House Gaines Wife. Clara as I remember was awfuly kind to me. So was Jo Fitzpatrick. She had these kind eyes. If you were never in trouble or needed direction then you missed out. She was a good compass. I just always felt good around her. Prayers for the family. You were truly blest.
Jimmie Thore
I remember Mrs Gaines as being a good listener, very kind, and with a nice smile. I specifically remember having a conference with her regarding one of those "crossroads" decisions I was having to make, My main memory was that she helped me feel good about the decision I was making, and I have often been grateful for that reassurance.