Clara Emma Briggs age 99 of Monroe, died Thursday, March 26, 2015 at Pleasant View Nursing Home. Clara was born July 24, 1915 in Clarno Township, the daughter of Franklin Benjamin and Florence Clara (Schroeder) Trumpy. She graduated as Salutatorian of the Monroe High School class of 1933. Clara and Forrest R. Briggs were married January 2, 1936 at the East Clarno Zion UMC parsonage. They later divorced. Clara farmed with her husband in Clarno Township from 1936 until 1968. She was employed as a cook at St. Clare Hospital from 1968 until retiring in 1981. She was a member of East Clarno Zion UMC and past treasurer of the United Methodist Women. Clara also was a member of the Clarno Staver Friendly Circle, Behring Senior Center, and enjoyed quilting, sewing, and reading.

She is survived by three children, Richard (Alice) Briggs, James Briggs (Sharon Andrews), and Alice (Michael) Siedschlag, all of Orangeville, IL; 11 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; five great-great- grandchildren; and a brother, Alfred Trumpy of Mt. Horeb. She was preceded in death by her parents; a son, Jerry Briggs; a brother, George Trumpy; and two sisters, Rachel Holcomb and Faith Johnson.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, March 30, 2015, at 11:00 a.m., at the East Clarno Zion United Methodist Church with Rev. Inwha Shon officiating. Interment will follow in the East Clarno Cemetery. Visitation will be at the church on Monday from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service. Memorials are suggested to the East Clarno Church or Friends of Pleasant View in Clara's name. The Newcomer Funeral Home, Monroe, is assisting the family.

www.newcomerfuneralhome.net