Clara Coleman DeVane

Clara Coleman DeVane, age 83, went to be with her Lord on August 13, 2026, in St. Augustine, Florida after a brief illness. Clara was born on November 13, 1942, in Lansing, Michigan. Clara attended local grade and high schools with Jerry DeVane. They fell in love on their senior trip, and on July 1, 1961, Clara and Jerry were married in the First United Methodist Church in St. Augustine, Florida. They enjoyed 65 years of marriage. Clara was a devoted wife, a loving mother and grandmother. After a major stroke in 2016 left her with significant physical challenges, Clara dedicated herself to praying, encouraging and staying connected with her children, grandchildren and friends through regular text messages. Her relationship with Jerry entered a new and enduring chapter, as he lovingly served and cared for her every need in the following years. Clara became a child of God as a young girl growing up in the Baptist Church, and her faith only grew stronger as she faced the challenges of losing her young adult son, Mark, followed by her debilitating stroke. Clara focused on others and their needs and was upbeat about her own condition, praising God and pointing to Him in every connection. Clara was a legal secretary for a local law practice for many years. She retired from Gran Central, a subsidiary of Florida East Coast Railway, where she acted as Property Manager, managing numerous commercial properties in the Bayard area. For many years she also worked alongside her husband in their small grocery store in Spuds, Florida. Clara was an active member of the Professional Secretaries International organization, where she enjoyed connecting with fellow secretaries in the area, especially her beloved friend and coworker, Gertrude Mickler. Upon retirement, Clara spent much of her time crafting. She especially enjoyed quilting and crocheting, and excelled at both. She loved attending craft shows and making beautiful pieces for friends and family. She built a successful side gig from the sale of her handiwork, which was especially popular among families with small children. She is preceded in death by her son, Mark DeVane; her brothers, Jack Coleman and James Coleman; her sister, Helen Coleman Miller. She is survived by her husband of 65 years, Jerry DeVane; daughter Jill Scales (Raymond), granddaughter, Michaela Scales Weatherman (Cameron), grandson, Harrison Scales, and great-granddaughter,Timber Weatherman; daughter-in-law, Leigh DeVane, grandson Jesse DeVane; daughter, Pamela Grimm (Thadd), granddaughter Madison Grimm, grandsons Ford Grimm, Jude Grimm (Sarah), and Fischer Grimm; great-granddaughter, Henley Bates, great-grandsons Reeve Bates, Indy Bates, Isaiah Bates, and Finnegan Grimm. She is also survived by a brother, Ronald Coleman (Vivian), and many nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Life will be held at 1 pm on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at St. Johns Family Funeral Home. Flowers are gratefully accepted, or donations can be made in her memory to the charity of their choice. St. Johns Family Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Clara Coleman DeVane

November 13, 1942 - August 13, 2026