Novella Laven McClard of Dexter, Missouri, daughter of the late Luther Cates and May Beulah (Johnson) Cates was born on April 3, 1935, in Bloomfield, Missouri, and passed from this life on March 12, 2023, at her home peacefully in Dexter, Missouri, at the age of 87 years.   

She attended the Assembly of God Church in Dexter. Novella loved to spending time with her family.  Novella worked for many years as a cook at Dexter Public Schools.

She was united in marriage with J.R. McClard on October 25, 1953, in Dexter, Missouri. He preceded her in death on November 20, 2001. 

Novella is survived by one son, Starlin McClard of Dexter, Missouri one grandchild, and one great-grandchild; as well as a host of family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband; and one sister; Dorothy Sayre.

Graveside service were held on Tuesday, March 14, 2023,  from 2:00 P.M. at the Walker Cemetery in Bloomfield, Missouri, with Watkins And Sons Funeral of Dexter in charge of arrangements.