Clara Lucy Linz

Clara Lucy was born in Quito, Ecuador, on November 14, 1950. She had roots in the United States and in Ecuador. Her father, Howard George, served in WW2 and belonged to the family of Dr. Elmo George, a respected educator in Enid, Oklahoma. Her mother, Clara Bustamante, was the daughter of Dr. José Rafael Bustamante, writer, philosopher and politician, and of Hipatia Cárdenas, a pioneer in furthering the education and suffrage rights of women. Clara Lucy grew up in Quito and was educated in the American School (Colegio Americano). In 1978, she married Alfredo Linz, and soon after the birth of their first son Juan José in 1979, the family came to the United States for her husband to carry out his graduate studies. They had a second son, Felipe, in 1980, and then decided to stay in the United States to seek a better future for their children, settling in Austin in 1984, where Clara Lucy made several life-long friendships. The family was blessed with a third son, Diego, who was born in 1990. Clara Lucy was a strong, independent woman who was known for her honesty and unwavering moral compass and optimism. Intelligent, wise and beautiful, Clara Lucy had an innate ability to empathize with others, regardless of their differences or their social station, and was always ready to help those in need. This humility, openness and selflessness were apparent throughout her life and were treasured by those who got to know her. Clara Lucy loved nature, the company of others and good conversation. But it was her three sons whom Clara Lucy adored more than anything. And Juan José, Felipe and Diego adored her as well, continuing to be forever grateful to have had Clara Lucy as their mother, whom they know will be waiting to give them an "abrazo de la felicidad" (a hug of happiness) when they eventually reunite. When birds sing, we will think of her wonderful laughter, and when the sun rises, we will remember her radiant smile.

She was preceded in death by her brother Edward George, and is survived by her

husband, Alfredo, her sons Juan José, Felipe and Diego, her daughter-in-law

Ruth and her grandson Elio, her brother Neal George and her beloved nieces

Lorena and Nicole George.

The family suggests that, in lieu of flowers, a donation be made to the American Cancer Society.