Clarissa Lablache Cheer was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Born just before the Second World War in Southampton, England, she was the only daughter of an Oxford educated teacher father and a creative artist and writer mother. Clarissa married Sam Cheer at the young age of 21 and then after the birth of their first child the young couple emigrated to the United States. They were married 66 years and 8 months.
Clarissa studied European art history and painting at Southampton College of Art, graduating with what is equivalent to a Bachelor of Arts. She then launched a career as a talented freelance artist and muralist. Her creativity crossed into many areas over the years, including becoming a clothing designer and dressmaker. During this time she had her own design company, “Clarissa of California.”
She enjoyed gardening, jewelry making, cooking and floral design-eventually expanding her dry flower arrangements into a thriving retail business all while raising five children.
Her later years were spent pursuing her passion for opera as an author, musicologist, screen writer and founder of an opera fan club. She traveled to many operas during those years in the US and abroad. Her opera interests were only equaled by her love of art history and family genealogy. She authored two books and wrote articles for several opera publications as well as a postcard magazine. She pursued many other interests including collecting shells and postcards. But most important in her heart was her many dear friends and family.
Clarissa passed away peacefully at home in our Lord’s presence on May 4th. She is survived by her husband, brother, five children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her family wishes to celebrate her life in a Remembrance ceremony at a future date where we hope your comments and memories can be included.