Clara Lyl Swain Garrett

Obituary For Clara Lyl Swain Garrett

Clara’s journey began on a crisp autumn day, Friday, November 23, 1934, bringing light and joy to Eathen and Lizzie Swain.

She enriched the lives of many through her role as an Elder at St. Campbell Missionary Baptist Church. Clara's passion for faith and community was reflected in everything she did—whether singing hymns with her church family at St. Campbell Missionary Baptist Church or sharing her wisdom in her role as a caretaker.

Her nurturing spirit extended beyond her church and community. Clara was a devoted cook for the Alabama Industries for the Deaf and Blind in Talladega, where she dedicated her career to preparing meals with love and care. Gardening was another of her cherished pastimes, where she found peace and pleasure among the blooms and leaves. Clara also enjoyed shopping—an activity shared with an ever-expanding circle of friends and family.

Clara is survived by her loving daughters, Peggy Lyl (Douglas) Howard of Lincoln, AL, and Phyllis (Cleon) Wiggins of Lee Summit, MS. She was a proud grandmother to seven grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren. Her extended family includes her dear sisters, Beatrice Garrett and Datie (L.C.) Gilbert of Alpine, AL, and Janie Swain of Fontana, CA. Her brothers, Arthur Swain of Alpine, AL, Richard Swain and Michael (Mary) Swain of Lincoln, AL, will fondly remember her warmth and laughter.

She also leaves behind a special friend, Jesse Willis of Talladega, AL; her adopted family, The Willis Family; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and numerous friends who will treasure her memory.

Clara Garrett passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at the age of 90. Clara was preceded in death by her husband, Otis Garrett; and her daughter, Sandra Scott; and her parents, Eathen and Lizzie Swain. She was also preceded by her brothers, Bobby Joe Swain, E. J. Swain, and Larry Gene Swain; sisters-in-law, Lizzie Swain and Ruth Swain; and brothers-in-law, Hugh Garrett and Willie Swain.

Services

Visitation

Jul

25

Terry’s Metropolitan Mortuary | Talladega, AL

1702 Battle Street West
Talladega, AL 35160

1:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Get Directions

Funeral Service

Jul

26

St. Campbell Missionary Baptist Church

4198 Glovers Ferry Road
Alpine, AL 35014

1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Get Directions

Interment

Jul

26

St. Campbell Missionary Baptist Church

4198 Glovers Ferry Road
Alpine, AL 35014

2:00 PM

Get Directions