Clara Lou Aramayo, born on February 12, 1926, in Florence, South Carolina, left this world to join the Lord on March 28, 2026, in Los Angeles, California. She passed at the age of 100, with her daughter, Pamela, at her side. Clara was the cherished daughter of Mollie and Albert L. James. Throughout her life, she embraced many roles: beloved wife, devoted mother, caring sister, aunt, and faithful friend. Her unwavering faith and compassionate nature touched countless lives. Clara was preceded in death by her husband of 57 years, Ciro Aramayo; her brothers Hayward, Jamie, Junius; her sister Claire; and her nephew, Neil.

From a young age, Clara Lou worked at her father’s corner store as a clerk, developing a strong business sense and remarkable work ethic. She also helped oversee the cotton and tobacco fields, assisting her father with the property’s operations. This dedication continued during her years in Washington, D.C., where she balanced multiple jobs. Her primary role was as a clerk typist with the United States Navy, and she also worked at the Pali-Royal Dress Shop. Clara regularly sent money home to her parents during times when business was slow in South Carolina.

Along with her hardworking nature, Clara Lou had a playful side. She enjoyed discovering and sharing the latest gossip in her community, writing an anonymous column for the school paper. Though Lake City’s small-town atmosphere didn’t satisfy her adventurous spirit, her writing allowed her to connect with others and tell colorful stories about local personalities.

Clara Lou’s ability to connect with others and her strong work ethic led to her selection for a position at the Office of Strategic Services (OSS) in Washington, D.C. Olin B. Johnson, a senator from South Carolina, recommended and signed for her to become a federal government employee immediately after high school. She went on to have an extensive career as a civil worker with the United States Navy in Charleston, South Carolina, and Los Angeles, California.

Clara’s life was marked by steadfast commitment to Christ and remarkable resilience. Before settling in Los Angeles, she found spiritual fulfillment and embraced salvation during a revival led by Evangelist Sam Todd. Her faith was evident in the healing she received from an ulcerated colon and in the many lives she uplifted through her spiritual walk.

Together with her sister and mother, Clara hosted prayer meetings, seeking guidance and favor for her family. These gatherings were pivotal in their move from Charleston, South Carolina, inspiring their relocation to Los Angeles, where they arrived on April 6, 1956, almost 70 years ago. Clara believed their journey was divinely guided.

In Los Angeles, Clara Lou James met Ciro Aramayo, the love of her life. They married on December 16, 1962, and remained devoted to each other until Ciro’s passing on May 10, 2020, at the age of 94. Together, they raised three children, nurturing them with love, discipline, and musical training, while encouraging academic achievements and lifelong values. Their home in downtown LA, now the site of Hotel Indigo, was believed by Clara to be divinely chosen.

At home, Clara found joy in making the environment warm and organized, carefully decorating for each holiday and preparing abundant meals for family and friends. Southern hospitality was central to her lifestyle. She enjoyed cooking, baking southern recipes, tending her garden and lawn, and pruning backyard fruit trees. She was a natural at sewing creating beautiful outfits with fine details for her daughters as well as award-winning costumes for school competitions. Clara Lou also loved collecting ceramic and jade elephants. She regularly sat on her front porch, sipping coffee and greeting business people as they went about their day, enjoying views of the downtown LA skyline.

The now peacefully deceased leaves behind a legacy of devotion, perseverance, and love. Her spirit and unwavering faith will continue to inspire all who knew her, reminding us of the power of service, prayer, and compassion. She will be missed by all.

Clara Lou is survived by her three children: James, Stacey, and Pamela; her niece Connie Dennis and husband, Glen; and her nephews Jamie K and Ryan.

A Celebration of Life graveside ceremony will be held at Forest Lawn, Glendale, CA, on April 8, 2026 at 12 noon.

(See video in the "Videos" section of Media on this page for Mother's Day at 90 years old.)