Clara E. McCullough

Clara McCullough, also known to her Chilean friend and family as Clara Elena Perez Reyes, passed away peacefully on October 26, 2024, in Vero Beach, FL, at the age of 65. Born on August 17, 1959, in Santiago, Chile, Clara’s journey of devotion, resilience, and warmth spanned continents, touched countless lives, and left an indelible mark on her community.

Clara spent her early years in Santiago, later relocating to Caracas, Venezuela several years, before returning to Chile, and ultimately moving to the United States in 2001, where she built her life in Vero Beach. A gifted and compassionate worker, Clara became a beloved presence in the Sea Oaks community, where her selflessness, kindness, and skill as a housekeeper, caretaker, and chef transformed the lives of those she served. From large families to individual seniors in need, she treated each person with respect, warmth, and unparalleled care. Her dedication earned her the affectionate title, “Angel of Sea Oaks,” a testament to her giving spirit and unwavering support for all who needed her.

Yet, Clara’s most cherished role was as a mother. She was profoundly proud of raising her son in a new country, providing him with the love, support, and courage needed to thrive. Her pride knew no bounds as she witnessed him grow, excel, and achieve his dreams, including a doctoral degree, international performances, and collaborations with renowned artists such as Andrea Bocelli, and major orchestras around the country in which she loved to be a member of the audience. Her happiest memories included traveling the world with him, celebrating their accomplishments as a team, and embracing the life they had built together overcoming many obstacles.

A devoted woman of God, Clara was a member of St. Helen Catholic Church and St. John of the Cross during her years in Vero Beach. Her faith guided her actions and was a cornerstone of her character. She had a devout love for St. Rita of Cascia and attributed many intercessions to her prayers.

Clara is survived by her loving husband, Donald McCullough, Jr.; her children, Francisco Jose Emilio Rutllant Perez, Emilio Miguel Francisco Rutllant Perez, Max McCullough, and Hayley McCullough; and her cherished grandchildren, Francisca Ignacia Rutllant Barria, Benjamin Rutllant Torres, and Juan Pablo Rutllant Torres. She was predeceased by her first husband, Emilio Martin Rutllant Costa; her mother, Ana Julia Reyes Martinez; her father, Jose Heriberto Perez Pino; and her brother, Jose Heriberto Perez Reyes.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held in her honor on Tuesday, November 12, at 12 PM at St. Helen Catholic Church in Vero Beach, FL.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to 883 Greenleaf Circle, Vero Beach, FL 32960.

Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.