Clara Elizabeth (Jacob) Kluis

Clara Elizabeth Jacob Kluis, 78, passed away on Sunday July 30, 2023 at Christiana Hospital, attended by her family.

Clara was born on March 22, 1945 in Nassawadox, VA, and was raised in Onancock, VA.  She was the daughter of the late Dr. Thomas Nathaniel Jacob II and Flora Miller Jacob.  Clara graduated from Longwood College with a degree in elementary education.  She taught elementary education in Chesterfield, VA, and in Accomack County. 

In 1974, Clara married Gerald “Gerry” Kluis.  During their 49 years of marriage they have resided in Maryland, North Carolina, Virginia, and for the past 44 years in Delaware.  Very dear to Clara was her faith in her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, her family, her country, and her friends.  Clara was long term member of the First Presbyterian Church of Newark, Newark Country Club, The National Society of Colonial Dames XVII Century, and the Daughters of the American Revolution. Over the years Clara has enjoyed many activities including golf, bridge, travel, reading, gardening, mahjong, and bowling.  Clara was also an animal lover who cared deeply for the wildlife surrounding her home and her pets, Mackie and Squeakie.

Clara was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Thomas N. Jacob III.  She is survived by her sister, Lila Jacob Nicolls, and her husband, William H. “Terry” Nicolls III, of Newport News VA; her sister in law, Charlene Bloxom Jacob, of Accomac, VA; and her nieces and nephews, Scott Thomas Jacob (Lisa), Juanita Miller “Millie” Snyder (Josh), Beth Hinson, and William H. “Will” Nicolls IV (Dani); and 10 great-nieces and great-nephews.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the staff of the Christiana Hospital Intensive Care Unit and the Hospice Unit for the incredible compassion and commitment to the comfort and care of their patients.  Also, the family is appreciative of the loving care provided by her caregiver and friend, Dianna Nichols.

Arrangements are for a family graveside service in Virginia. 

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in Clara’s memory to Faithful Friends Animal Society, 165 Airport Road, New Castle, Delaware 19720 (302 427 8514).

Memory tributes may be shared with the family at www.williamsfuneralhomes.com. 

Graveside Arrangements by the Williams-Onancock Funeral Home. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Clara Elizabeth (Jacob) Kluis, please visit our floral store.