Clara Louise Sydnor

CLARA LOUISE SYDNOR, affectionately known as “Tough Woman,” was born on April 18, 1933, in Kershaw, South Carolina, to Mimmie “Honey Bell” and Richard Shropshire. Tough Woman peacefully entered eternal rest on December 14, 2025, at the age of 92. Clara was the second oldest of five children. The family spent her early years in Kershaw, SC, where Clara discovered her passion for cosmetology while spending time in her mother’s beauty salon, as she put it, “liking to hear grown folk talk.” After losing her mother at the tender age of 13, the family relocated to Baltimore, Maryland. Deeply influenced by her grandparents, specifically her grandfather, Clara learned the values of discipline, faith, quiet strength, and the importance of listening. These principles shaped her character and guided her throughout life. In 1950, Tough Woman graduated from Carver Technology and Vocational High School in Baltimore, Maryland. Clara married Johnnie Roy Sydnor, a blessed union that produced seven children: Daphene (deceased), Yolanda, Jacqueline, Johnnie Roy, Kenneth, Rodney, and Donna. Later, they moved to New York City, building a home where Tough Woman was the heart, steadfast in nurturing the family with love, structure, accountability, and faith. Clara was left to carry the family with determination and quiet grace after her husband’s passing, always placing her children above all. Known for her sweet spirit and gentle presence, Tough Woman believed in leading by example, the value of education, and strong family bonds. She found joy in sewing, reading, and sharing meals with family and friends. Her faith was a guiding light and source of comfort throughout her life. Clara’s perseverance and entrepreneurial spirit led her to graduate from Wilfred Academy of Hair and Beauty Culture in 1979, following in her mother’s footsteps as a cosmetologist. Shortly afterwards, Tough Woman and daughter Jacqueline (a third-generation cosmetologist) opened La Chic Beauty Salon in Brooklyn, NY, where she worked until her retirement. She approached her craft with pride, care, and dedication. After retirement, Clara continued to give generously of herself, fostering two teenage girls and providing them with love, guidance, and stability. Tough Woman leaves to cherish her memory and lessons: her sister, Freeda; loving children, Yolanda, Jacqueline, Johnnie Roy, Kenneth, Rodney and Donna; daughter-in-law, Delseta and son-in-law, Robert; grandchildren, Shawn, Dana (Shandrea), Eric, Aaron, Rodney, Robert, Brandon, Ebonie and Atiyya; great-grandchildren, Tyler, Aaliyah, Jason, Kennedy, Aameah, Romelo and Kaizen; along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Her legacy lives on through the generations she nurtured and the values she passed down with patience and love.

Tributes

Clara Louise Sydnor

April 13, 1933 - December 14, 2025