Elsa “Clare” Metzger Aycock, a gracious hostess, the smile that charmed everyone, the mother, wife, daughter, aunt, grandmother and great-grandmother, friend that was loved by all, on January 1st at the age of 92 joined her beloved husband, Tom Aycock, her parents, Leonard and Elsa Metzger and her brother, Leonard, Jr & Gwen Metzger. And, her stepchildren, Michael Aycock & Sue Snipes.
Clare was born in Mobile on February 2, 1932. She went to the University of Alabama. After that she moved to New Orleans to work at WDSU. In the early 50’s, she married and had 3 daughters, Elsa Gaskell (Ed) of New Orleans, Harriet Simon (BC Ellis) of Mobile and Leah Simon (Peter Hazeloop) of Alexandria, VA.
This amazing woman raised her 3 girls as a single mother, even after suffering 2 major strokes when in her 30’s. In the 70’s she owned an art gallery, the Lawrence St Gallery. She loved art and was herself very creative. She painted and was a potter.
Clare loved the theater and spent many hours at the Joe Jefferson Playhouse. She worked in the ticket office while her children worked backstage. She also hosted some very memorable cast parties. While working at JJP she met the love of her life, her husband Tom. They had 41 wonderful years together. For over 25 years they lived in Virginia, then 12 years ago they returned to Mobile to be closer to family. Tom died in 2014.
Clare is survived by her 3 daughters, 2 grandchildren Perry & Clare Gaskell and her 1st great-grandchild Blakely Gaskell. Also, numerous Aycocks, Chris (Vanessa), Lauren (Rex), Sandy, TJ, Tommy, Taylor, Amy, Matt & Laurie. Her loving nieces and nephew, Debbie Stephens (Thornton), Peggy Mills (Beau), Lee Metzger (Belinda) and other dear friends.
Funeral service will be held Wednesday, Jan 8th at 1:00 pm, at the Springhill Avenue Temple Cemetery, 841 Owens St in Mobile.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to Save A Stray of Mobile or your favorite animal rescue organization. Clare loved all animals, especially her horse, Peaches, the lion cub, King, her dogs, JD, Lucky & many others. Condolences may be offered at www.radneyfuneralhome-mobile.com.
