MARY “KATY” CLOAR,

80, passed away on January 18, 2020, in her home with her husband, Ralph Cloar, Jr., by her side. A selfless, loving, and devoted person, Katy was completely committed to her family and church. Her laugh brightened every room and her stories warmed the hearts of her children and grandchildren. Above all, she enjoyed crafting, dancing, and spending time with her family — especially at the beach.

She was an active member of Calvary Baptist Church for 47 years where she served on many committees, but most cherished her time as a Sunday school teacher for babies and toddlers.

A two-time breast cancer survivor, she turned her experience into an opportunity to reach dozens of women who were similarly diagnosed. For many years Katy counseled, coached, and championed women along their difficult journey, whether as a resource for advice or just by simply listening. Most often, she used her story to encourage others.

A native Arkansan, Katy was born in Russellville to Mary and Ralph Hamm. As a young girl, Katy worked at her parent’s grocery store, Hamm Grocery and Market, and, in her free time, she would fish with her dad or ride her pony.

Katy was introduced to Ralph Cloar, Jr. through a mutual friend in 1957. They were married for 57½ years and together had three children, five grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

She is preceded in death by her parents and daughter, Mary Virginia Struthers. She is survived by her husband, Ralph Cloar, Jr.; daughter, Lynn Cooper (Sam); son, Ralph Cloar, III (Kay); grandchildren, Jonathan Cloar (Sarah Beth), Julia Struthers, Haley Reilly (Luke), Mary Elise Cooper, Henry Cloar; and great grandchild, Connor Cloar.

Katy attended Arkansas Tech University where she graduated with a degree in elementary education. She went on to East Texas State and received a certificate in special education. Her first career was working with children at Easter Seals in Little Rock.

A special thank you to her loving caregivers Carolyn Reed, Natalie Williams and Anita Tagaloni Shook.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, February 9, 2020, at 2 p.m. at Calvary Baptist Church (5700 Cantrell Road, Little Rock) with a visitation immediately following in the hospitality room.

Memorials may be made to Calvary Baptist Church, 5700 Cantrell Road, Little Rock, Ark., 72207. Arrangements are under the direction of Ruebel Funeral Home, www.ruebelfuneralhome.com.