Helen T. Clough's Obituary
H. “Tyra” Clough, 74, of Lewes, DE, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on October 17, 2024, at her home.
Born in Durham, NC, to Helen and Eugene Pearson, Tyra touched the lives of many throughout her life with her kindness, intelligence, and generosity.
Tyra, along with her partner Tom Ryan, founded and operated Ryan's Berry Farm and Market, where they sold jams, jellies, and chutneys to the local community. Tyra and Tom also traveled to Central America, where they shared their knowledge on starting and operating a cottage industry. She later worked as a store manager for Jones New York and eventually dedicated herself to providing care as a home healthcare aide. Tyra was also a valued poll worker in Delaware for over 30 years.
Tyra was soft-spoken yet strong, and elegant, always impeccably styled in her starched shirts with turned-up collars, she was known for her beauty. Her love for nature and gardening, especially her passion for flowers, reflected her nurturing spirit. She also enjoyed decorating and redecorating, bringing her own unique flair to every space. Above all, Tyra loved shopping .
Her most cherished passion, however, was rescuing dogs and cats, working tirelessly to ensure they found their homes. Her beloved cats, Cee Cee and Casper, were rescued by Just Us Cats and are now in their forever homes. For all those she loved, she will be remembered for her thoughtful gifts of banana bread, lemon bars, and the infamous cheese ball.
Tyra was predeceased by her parents and her nephew, Branden Thompson. She is survived by her two sisters, Catherine P. Byrd (Everette) of Williamsburg, VA, and Cynthia P. Thompson (Phil) of Idyllwild and Markleesville, CA; her nephew, Scott Thompson of McKinleyville, CA; and her beloved cousin, Robert Scott (Brian) of Richmond, VA. Tyra's memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends in North Carolina and Virginia.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Tyra’s memory to local animal shelters.
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