Clara Belle Cook, age 89, of Flora, Illinois, passed away Tuesday morning, December 23, 2025, at Clay County Hospital.

      She was born April 12, 1936, in Miles City, Montana, the daughter of Clem Button and Verna Lucille (Knapp) Lee.  She was raised from the age of 3 by her great uncle and great aunt, John “Doc” and Ella (Harrell) Milner whom she affectionately called Daddy and Mom Milner.  Clara Belle was united in marriage to Jack Lee Cook on September 4, 1954, in Anchorage, Alaska, and together they shared 21 wedding anniversaries until his passing on January 1, 1976.

      Clara Belle found great joy in the simple, meaningful moments of life.  She loved taking photographs, capturing memories and beauty wherever she went.  She was a member of the Oak Grove Church in Johnsonville where she played the piano.  Deeply devoted to her family, Clara Belle remained closely connected to those she loved, faithfully staying in touch through long phone conversations and heartfelt visits.  True to her “old school” nature, she found joy in writing thoughtful cards and letters to those she loved, leaving behind handwritten words that will continue to be treasured by her family for years to come.  She valued her friendships deeply and held a special place in her heart for her beloved pets.  Known for her warm heart and gentle spirit, Clara Belle was kind, caring, and loving—always smiling and never judgmental.

      She is survived by her children: Gary Lee Cook of Salem, Dennis J. (Kathy) Cook of Flora, and Cindy M. Cook of Flora; grandchildren: Jeremy Cook (Talisa Ashby) of Olney, Justin (Brittany) Cook of Florida, and Cody Cook; great-grandchildren: Jackson Cook of Flora, and Jaymen, Tylee, and Tripp Cook, all of Florida; a nephew: Steve Lee of Fairfield; nieces: Carole Ann Musgrave of Fairfield, Pam Tarwater of Overland Park, Kansas, and Stephanie Lee; a sister-in-law: Bernadine Keyser of Fairfield; “Milner siblings”: Larry Dean Milner and Jeanette Simonin; and several other Milner family members.

      She was preceded in passing by her husband: Jack Lee Cook; parents; great uncle and great aunt: John and Ella Milner; 3 brothers: Gene Lee, Joe Lee, and Johnie (Ruby) Milner; her “Milner brothers” Ronnie Milner and Donnie Milner; and a daughter-in-law: Marcie Lynn Cook.

      A funeral ceremony will be held at 1 p.m. on Monday, December 29, 2025, at Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora.  Interment will follow in Cisne Cemetery.  A visitation will be held from 12 noon until 1 p.m. on Monday at the funeral home.  Memorial donations are suggested to Fur a Good Paws, and these will be accepted through the funeral home.  To share a condolence or memory, visit: www.frankandbright.com