Clara Marie Brown (73) of Watson

Clara Marie Brown, 73, of Watson, IL, passed away on Wednesday, March 12, 2025 at her home.

A celebration of life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 22, 2025 at Watson Baptist Church in Watson with burial in Watson Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, March 21, 2025 at Johnson Funeral Home in Effingham. Memorials may be made to Watson Baptist Church. Online condolences may be shared by clicking here. 

Clara was born on March 27, 1951, in Effingham, IL, the daughter of Albert and Elsie (Wernsing) Buenker. She married Robert Brown on February 19, 1972 at the Stewardson Christian Church and he survives. Clara was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother. She worked at Martin’s IGA and 25 years at Effingham Unit 40 as a cook, mostly for the Early Learning Center. Clara was a planner and enjoyed organizing the family get-togethers. She was known for her holiday fruit cakes and candies. Clara was a member of the Lions Club, Watson Civic Center, and the Watson Baptist Church.

Clara is survived by her husband, Bob Brown of Watson; children, Aaron (Robin) Brown of Effingham and Lori (Chad) West of Effingham; grandchildren, Kylie West (special friend, Jarred O’Leary), Karter West, Katelyn West, Alexander Brown, and Brooklyn Brown all of Effingham; brothers, Tom Buenker (Connie) and Bill (Tama) Buenker; sister, Theresa (Don) Engel; 10 nephews; and 7 nieces.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Paul Buenker and Ed Buenker; and other loving family members.