Clara Ann Johansen Matthews, age 86, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 12, 2025, in Sammamish, Washington. Born on December 18, 1938, in Cardston, Alberta, Canada, Clara was the third child of Ray William Johansen and Bessie Ingeborg Peterson. She grew up on a farm in Woolford, Alberta, riding horseback with her brothers to a two-room country school, where she developed a lifelong love of learning.

Clara's family moved to Lethbridge, Alberta, when she was nine years old. Clara excelled academically, graduating from Lethbridge Collegiate Institute in 1956. She earned a scholarship to the University of Alberta, completed her teaching certificate, and taught second grade in Edmonton, Alberta. Clara later attended Brigham Young University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with a minor in music. While at BYU, she met and married George Eugene Matthews in 1961. Together, they raised six children and shared 64 years of marriage.

Clara's life was marked by courage and service. She and George lived in Hawaii, Alaska, Utah, and Medicine Hat, Alberta, where they were active in the community and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Clara was a devoted mother, homemaker, and teacher. She is remembered for her wonderful cooking, baking, and exceptional sewing. She was also a talented pianist, artist, and potter, and enjoyed quilting, knitting, and painting.

Teaching was Clara's passion. She taught piano, adult literacy, and special education, helping many children, including those with learning disabilities, find success in reading, writing, and math. Her creativity, patience, and encouragement touched many lives.

Clara faced life's challenges with faith, resolve, and fortitude. She had a firm testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ. She and George took great pride in the accomplishments of their children and grandchildren. Clara deeply loved her family and especially cherished her husband, George. Her life was a testament to creativity, kindness, and unwavering faith.

Clara was preceded in death by her husband, George; her parents; her brother Carl; and her in-laws. She is survived by her six children: Susan (Randy) Teerlink, Robert Matthews, William Matthews, Sharon (Tyler) Whitney, Geoffrey (Kristi) Matthews, and Barbara (Edward) Galbraith; along with thirteen grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held on January 2, 2026, at Walker Sanderson Funeral Home, located at 646 East 800 North, Orem, Utah. Friends and extended family are invited to pay their respects starting at 10:00 a.m. The funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m., with interment immediately afterward at the Orem City Cemetery, 1520 N 800 E, Orem, Utah.