Clara B. Sailor

Clara B. Sailor, 92, of Battle Creek, died Saturday, January 2, 2016 at her home surrounded by her family. She was born June 14, 1923 in Riverdale, MI, the daughter of Albert G. and Annie (Wort) Bupp. Clara was married in March 23, 1941to Rev. Donald P. Sailor in North Star. Her husband of 42 years preceded her in death in 1983. In addition to being a homemaker and a mother of three, Clara served beside her husband in his ministries in Beaverton, White Pigeon, Shelby, Battle Creek, Jackson and Lansing in the UnitedMethodist Church.
She is survived by her sons, Phillip (Shari) Sailor of Manistee, Byron (Nancy) Sailor of Baraga ; daughter, Janet (William) Burton of Battle Creek, eight grandchildren, and sixteen great-grandchildren. In addition to her husband Donald, Clara was preceded in death by three infant children, her parents, three brothers and three sisters.
She served many years in the Red Cross and filled many positions within the Maple United Methodist Church. She was known by some in and about the community as the "candy cane lady" . She had an acrylic cane she would fill with holiday candy and offered it to anyone who asked.
Her joy was her family, including fostering 21 babies, caring for nieces and nephews and anyone who was in need of care.
The Funeral Service in celebration of Clara's life will be held on Tuesday, January 5, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at the Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care, Battle Creek with Rev. James M. Gysel officiating. A Graveside Service will be held on Tuesday at 3:00 p.m. at North Star Cemetery, North Star, MI. Clara's family will greet friends on Monday, January 4th from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home and on Tuesday, one hour prior to the service. Memorial donations in Clara's honor may be made to the Maple United Methodist Church, 342 Capital Ave NE, Battle Creek, MI 49017.