Clara Etta Hardison-Kendall, age 94, of Wadesboro, NC, peacefully passed away surrounded by her loving family on May 23, 2024. She was born to the late Josh and Althea Little-Hardison and was later lovingly adopted by Stanly and Johnsie Jones.
Clara pursued her passion for beauty at Chava’s Beauty College, earning a degree in Cosmetology. She entered into Holy Matrimony with Alexander Kendall Jr., who preceded her in death. Together, they played a pivotal role in founding Bowens Chapel Holiness Church, where they remained faithful members for many years. Following her husband's passing, Clara became an active member of First Baptist Church.
With a successful career as a beautician, Clara was a cherished figure in her community. She balanced her thriving business with a full-time job at Cassie Cotillion in Norwood, NC, showcasing her dedication and work ethic.
In their union, Clara and Alexander were blessed with four children: Belinda Kendall of Charlotte, NC; Maria Kendall-Cox (Harold) of Monroe, NC; and Sandra Kendall-Cureton (Jamal) of Huntersville, NC. She is preceded in death by her daughter, Deborah Denise Kendall.
Clara leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion, cherished by her grandchildren Claire Richardson, Frances Evans, Benjamin Evans, and Kendall Cox-Roary (Willie) as well as her great-granddaughter, Iyana (YaYa) Lindsey, all residing in Charlotte, NC.
She is survived by her siblings: Myrtle Hardison Ward, Eula Hardison-Rush (Richard), Johnny Hardison, Jessie Hardison (Sharon), Lessie Hardison-Sharp (Lancaster, SC), Lora Hardison-Smith (Greensboro, NC), Jesse Hardison (Charlotte, NC), Mary Hardison-Lindsey (Wadesboro, NC) and Audrey Jones (Raleigh, NC). She is preceded in death by her siblings: Jack Hardison (Greensboro, NC), Sara Hardison Mosley (Minnesota), Josh Hardison (Greensboro, NC), Horace Hardison (Charlotte, NC), and Almeta Hardison-Hines (Greensboro, NC).
Clara's life was enriched by her special friend for many years, J. Huey Pratt, who preceded her in death. She also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews, each touched by her kindness and warmth.
Clara Etta Hardison-Kendall will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of those she loved and who loved her in return.
The Homegoing Services will be on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, 3:00pm, Smith’s Memorial Chapel, 604 Salisbury Street, Wadesboro, NC. Interment will be at Westview Memorial Park, Polkton, NC.
On behalf of Myself and the staff of Anson County Sheriff's Office, we extend our deepest sympathies to the family at this time. We pray that you will have comfort in the midst of your pain and peace in the midst of your sorrow. Sheriff Scott Howell
I am just now finding out Mrs. Kendall passed. I'm so sorry to hear that. As a child we were at her house all the time until we moved to Charlotte. Such a beautiful lady. Love Kristy Whitley Spruill
I remember Mrs. Clara Kendall from my childhood as a very kind and special lady. When I was six years old I couldn't go to school with the other kids in my age group because of medical reasons. Mrs. Kendall would bring me a snack from the school cafeteria every day which I looked forward to. For that and many other kind acts, she will always have a special place in heart.
Sincere condolences, Joseph K. Gatewood
Memories of Mother Clara at Bowens Chapel in my childhood. She would do my hair for the conventions and so many other times. Words cannot express how I feel now for she was the last of the Bowens Chapel legacy. Prayers of comfort for her family and what a legacy she has let behind. Precious memories. Charlie Mae Harshaw/Payne
"With deepest sympathy as you remember Mrs. Clara." I was saddened to hear that she passed away. She was a dear friend of my mother, Jessie. They worked together for many years. She always greeted me with a smile. When I passed by her home going to Wadesboro, I remember seeing her sitting on her porch in her swing. I would blow my horn and she would give me a big wave. Your mother was a sweet lady. Heaven has gained an angel. Shelia Coppadge and the Little Family
Mrs. Clara was a Highway 52 North community mother for us. She welcomed you to her home, was kind and was a loving spirit. Always had that welcoming smile. Rest well in Heaven with our Lord God.
You will be missed.
Sincerely, Brian Ellerby
Mrs. Clara was a Highway 52 North community mother for us. She welcomed you to her home, was kind and was a loving spirit. Always had that welcoming smile. Rest well in Heaven with our Lord God.
I had the opportunity to meet Ms Kendall in my class at Grace Senior Center. She was an active member, very pleasant, softly spoken an contributed so much wisdom.. She will be greatly missed
Shelia Raye
I remember Mrs. Clara from many years ago. Spending my time in worship as a child at Burns Chapel in Wadesboro. My condolences goes out to your family during this trying time. -From Esther Tillman-Davis
ToBelinda Maria and Sandra I would like to extend my deepest condolences at this time. I remember Mother Kendall from a little.girl at Bowen Chapel..Mother Kendall was so precious. We Love you guys Tammy Eddie Rita Ann Ross Robin Thomas
Belinda, Maria, Sandra praying for you all. All I can remember when your Mom was at Bowen Chapel how beautiful and sweet she was, I want to let you know that we are praying for you all, praying that God would give you strength and keep you as you go through the loss of your Mom, but you will see her again get comfort in that and she's with Jesus. We love you. Brenda colson Richardson
My condolences to the family praying 🙏 l remember Mrs Clara going on a shopping trip we had so much fun such a sweet beautiful lady
Maria, Belinda and Sandra. We send you our sincere condolences during your time of mourning. Praying God's comfort for you all. Samantha and The Tillman Family.
I am so sorry for your loss. She was a very sweet lady. We will keep you all in our prayers.
Belinda,Maria,Sandra sending Love thoughts,prayers to your family during this difficult time Terry Leak
I'm sorry to hear about the passing of Mrs Kendall. I remember her from Hwy 52 right on the corner of Richmond St . Family you are in my prayers.Annie Robinson and family.
Maria, Prayers to tou and your family. It is so hard when we lose our Mama's. Love you, Pat Harrington ❤️
To Marie, Sandra and family, your Mom was a beautiful soul. Ms. Clara was such a beautiful person inside and out. She will truly be missed. I'm going to miss her I love you's. Steve and I sends our deepest condolences to you all.
The Richardson family would like to extend our sincere condolences to the family during this time. May you find comfort and peace to carry you through. God bless
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.
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