She was born Jan. 31, 1935, in Henderson County to the late James and Inez Wise Osteen.
Ms. Cleary, as she was known throughout her 40-year career as an educator, dedicated herself to furthering education. Having graduated with multiple majors and minors in sciences from Wake Forest University, Ms. Cleary continued her own education throughout her career so that she could better educate not only those who gathered in her classroom at Forbush High School, but also her own children and grandchildren. Above all, she was a mother and educator, the two being nearly indistinguishable from one another for her.
Her mission in life was to tend to the needs of every child she came in contact with not by making anything any easier, but by making it better. With her passion, talent, feistiness and nurturing spirit, she inspired countless many. Their lives, as well as her own, is testament to her success.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her daughter, Bedina Cleary; and sister, Carolyn Hardin.
She is survived by her children, Jaime and wife Bonitia Cleary, John and wife Tammy Cleary, Joel and wife Marissa Cleary; grandchildren, Jayson and wife Charity Cleary, Morgan Cleary, Jessica and husband Jonathan Tritt, Joella Cleary, Jacob Cleary; great grandchildren, Kaley Tritt, Carolyn Tritt, Grace Tritt.
Her funeral service was held Monday, Aug. 9, 2010, at Gentry Chapel in Yadkinville by the Rev. Matthew Foster. Burial followed at Union Grove Baptist Cemetery. The family received friends Sunday at Gentry Family Funeral Service in Yadkinville.
Memorials can be made to Yadkin Christian Ministries, P.O. Box 204, Yadkinville, NC 27055. Online condolences can be made to www.gentryfuneralservice.com.
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