Clara Jane Estrada

Clara Jane (Cervantes) Estrada, 84, of Topeka, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 16, 2025.

Born on July 27, 1940, in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, she was the cherished daughter of Manuel and Mary Cervantes. Clara's educational journey included graduating from Mountain Plains High School in Glasgow, Montana in 1972 and received a certificate in Social Work from Mountains Plains Technical School.

Clara was employed as a Social Worker for Lincoln Community Action and later was employed by Novartis Laboratories in Lincoln, Nebraska, where she worked for 25 years until her retirement. Following her retirement, she was a care giver for the elderly in Lincoln, Nebraska.

A proud member of her community, Clara found joy in her family and cherished the moments spent with her loved ones. She married Elmer Estrada in December of 1957, in Scottsbluff, Nebraska. Together they made their home in Lincoln, Nebraska. Elmer remains a loving husband and supporter, along with their three sons: Phillip (Roseann) Estrada of Topeka, Richard (Deborah) Estrada of Manhattan, KS and Gregory (Tina) Estrada of Lincoln, NE. Clara is also survived by 13 grandchildren, Yadamis, Yolanda, Isreal, Ian, Michael, Patricia, Candace, Anthony, Mitchell, Jacob, Sarah, Brandy, and Braedan; 22 great-grandchildren and one expected in the summer of 2025; and six siblings, Lupe (Manuel) Guiterrez of Denver, CO, Ruthie (Glenn) Tewksbury of Connecticut, Freddie (Maddie) Cervantes of El Dorado, KS, Theresa Cervantes of Scottsbluff, NE, Linda Cervantes of Scottsbluff, NE, Tony (Margaret) Cervantes of Scottsbluff, NE and Jackie (Dominic) Guzman of Scottsbluff, NE; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a daughter, Tonia Estrada; and a son, Robert Estrada.

Clara loved spending time with her family over a cup of coffee and telling stories. Her other enjoyments included cooking, rolling tortillas, catering special occasions, reading and playing solitaire.

Honoring Clara's wishes, cremation has been arranged. A rosary will be prayed at 10:00 a.m., Friday, April 4, 2025, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, 1102 12th Ave, Scottsbluff, NE 69361, where a Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. Inurnment will follow at Fairview Cemetery in Scottsbluff, NE.

Dove Cremations and Funerals, Southwest Chapel in Topeka, Kansas is assisting the family during this time.

Memorial contributions may be made to Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, 1102 12th Ave, Scottsbluff, NE 69361to honor Clara's memory.

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