The Inspiring Story of Clara Elizabeth Short, Who Died on Her Birthday at 101
Clara Elizabeth Short, a remarkable woman who lived to see the dawn of the 21st century, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 16, 2023, at the age of 101. She was born on December 16, 1922, in Indianapolis, Indiana, and spent most of her life in the same city. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend to many.
A Long and Remarkable Life
Clara had a long and remarkable life that spanned seven decades. She witnessed many historical events and changes in her lifetime, such as World War II, the Cold War, the Civil Rights Movement, the Moon Landing, the Fall of the Berlin Wall, the Internet Revolution, and the COVID-19 Pandemic. She also experienced many personal joys and sorrows along the way.
She married her high school sweetheart, Robert Short Jr., in 1940 and they had four children: Linda Short Smith (deceased), Robert Short III (deceased), Linda Short Jones (deceased), and Robert Short IV. She also had nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren who adored her.
She worked as a secretary for various companies throughout her career and retired in 1988. She enjoyed reading books, gardening flowers, playing bridge with her friends, traveling to different places with her family or by herself, and volunteering at local charities.
She was known for her kindness, generosity, wisdom, humor, faithfulness, and resilience. She faced many challenges and hardships in her life but never gave up hope or lost her smile. She always had a positive outlook on life and a grateful heart for everything she had.
A Loving Family
Clara Short was surrounded by her loving family when she passed away. Her son Robert Short IV said that his mother was “the best mom anyone could ask for” and that he was “so proud of her”. He said that she was “a wonderful person who touched so many lives” and that he hoped that she would “rest in peace”.
Her daughter Linda Short Jones said that her mother was “a source of inspiration” for her and that she learned “so much from her”. She said that she loved how her mother “always supported me” and how she “made me laugh”. She said that she would miss her mother dearly but that she would always remember their bond.
Her grandson Robert Short V said that his grandmother was “a fun grandma” who always had stories to tell or games to play with him. He said that he loved how his grandmother “always spoiled me” with gifts or treats. He said that he would cherish their memories together but that he would also honor his grandmother’s legacy.
A Memorial Fund
Clara Elizabeth’s funeral expenses were covered by a memorial fund organized by Maria Marshall, who is related to Clara’s husband’s family. The fund raised $190 out of its $10 goal as of December 27. The fund is still accepting donations from anyone who wants to help Clara’s family during this difficult time.
The details of Clara’s service are still being worked out by Little & Sons Funeral Home, which is handling the arrangements for Clara’s body. No public services are scheduled at this time. However, anyone who wants to pay their respects or share their condolences can send flowers or a sympathy gift to Clara’s family through Little & Sons Funeral Home website.
Clara Elizabeth Short will be dearly missed by all who knew her or heard about her. She lived a long and remarkable life full of love and joy. She left behind a legacy of kindness and generosity that will inspire generations to come. May she rest in peace.
