Geraldine McClellan

Geraldine Laverne McClellan was born May 3, 1927, in Fort Jones, California to Emily and John Cardoza. She grew up on a ranch with her five siblings and later moved to Santa Barbara with her sisters. She soon met her husband, Robert (Bob) and married in 1952. Geri worked for the Police Department of Santa Barbara, where she was known for her secretarial skills and incredibly fast typing.
Geri lived an extraordinary 97 years, embracing life with gratitude, faith, and an unwavering love for her family. She was the devoted mother of four children, a cherished grandmother to five, and a beloved great-grandmother to seven. Her legacy of kindness, resilience, and deep- seated values will forever be remembered.
An exceptional cook, Geri delighted family and friends with her treasured recipes, carefully handwritten and saved with clothespins. Her delicious soups would soothe the soul and cure a cold. She always ensured that sweet treats accompanied the weekly barbecues at Tuckers Grove when the kids were growing up, where her chocolate cake and rhubarb pies were particular
favorites.
Beyond the kitchen, Geri’s creativity shone through her handmade crafts. She sewed curtains, bedspreads and most of her children’s clothes, reflecting her thoughtfulness and dedication. Her favorite pastimes were walks on the beach or tossing a baseball at the park with grandchildren, and she eagerly awaited estate sales on the weekends.
Geri’s quick wit and warm personality endeared her to everyone she met. She had an innate ability to bring laughter and light into any room, leaving lasting impressions on those fortunate enough to know her.
She is survived by three daughters, Susan Pico (Mike), Trish Graybill (Fred), and Kerry McCarthy; grandchildren, Josh Parker (Ariella), Destiny Dewar (Isaac), Danny Graybill (Jayne), David McCarthy (Emily), and Leah McCarthy (Ben); and was a proud great-grandmother of seven. Geri was preceded in death by her husband, Robert McClellan, and son, Tom McClellan.
A Mass will be held at the Old Mission Serra Chapel on Saturday, the 22nd of March at 11:00. We are beyond grateful to the wonderful staff and care Mom received at the Californian. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Poor Clare Monastery. Mom’s legacy will live on in the traditions she started, the values she imparted, and the love she shared. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered in the hearts of her family and friends.