Clara Mae (Newhall) Searles, 82, of Bennington, NH passed away peacefully on February 28, 2026.

She was born on October 6, 1943 in Henniker, NH to Laurence and Mae (Chamberlain) Newhall.

Her life’s work included dedicated service at Golden Guernsey and Ames Department Store, all while being a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and foster mother to more than 60 foster children. She found her greatest happiness in the time she shared with her family.

She is lovingly remembered by her family, including her children: Wade Searles, of Bennington, Richard Woodin, of Antrim, Candi Michaels, of Bennington, Pason Searles, of Bennington, Dwayne Searles, of Bennington, and Christopher Searles, of Keene.

She was the proud grandmother of six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

She is also survived by her siblings: Carol Jean (Newhall) O’Brien, of Greenfield, Cynthia (Newhall) Gould, of Antrim, Lloyd “Bud” Newhall, Quebec, Canada.

She was predeceased by her loving husband of 37 years, Lester “Beaver” Searles and her brother Charles “Chuck” Newhall

A graveside service will be held in the spring.

In lieu of flowers a donation may be made in her name to the National MS Society.