Aleta Mae Clair, age 80, of Livonia, Michigan, passed away peacefully at her home on November 1, 2026.

Aleta was born June 19, 1946, in Detroit, Michigan, to James and Aleta Wilburn. She grew up in the old Brightmoor district of Detroit and graduated from Garden City High School. She went on to study piano at the Detroit Conservatory of Music. Music was part of her whole life, and she used that gift in a special way to impact the lives of children.

Aleta began her career as a keypunch operator at Burroughs Corporation. She met her sweetheart, Larry, at Brightmoor Tabernacle, and they were married on July 13, 1968. Together they built a beautiful life centered on their faith and their church, Brightmoor Tabernacle (now Brightmoor Christian Church), where they are lifetime members. When their sons were born, Aleta stepped away from working outside the home to become a full-time homemaker and mother. Raising her boys, Larry Michael and Ron, was the joy of her life.

“Aleta Mae,” as she was affectionately called, returned to the music she loved and helped launch the children’s music program at Brightmoor. Along with leading kids choir, she directed Kids Korner, a Sunday morning children’s ministry that reached hundreds of children throughout the Detroit area. Her investment in those young lives was far reaching.

Aleta also poured her heart into On Eagles Wings, a women’s ministry. She spent countless hours mentoring women going through hard seasons, praying with families, and speaking at retreats and events. She was generous with her time and resources, and people always left her company feeling better than when they came.

Once her boys were older, Aleta joined the staff at Brightmoor, serving as a secretary in several roles, including at Franklin Road Christian School (now Novi Christian Academy) and later in the Music and Fine Arts Department. She loved serving her church and her pastors.

Aleta and Larry spent many happy days in Lewiston, Michigan, where they developed 10 acres of property. They hosted friends and family there often and loved the rugged beauty of northern Michigan. Their grandchildren treasure memories of going up north with Grandma (Mema) and Grandpa (Papa). She loved her family fiercely. In her final years, as she lived with Alzheimer’s, Larry cared for her faithfully at home.

Aleta is survived by her husband and soulmate of 58 years, Lawrence “Larry” Clair; her sons, Larry Michael (Jennifer) and Ron (Lindsey); her grandchildren, Lauren (Matthew) Heikka, Levi, Kelly, Alessandra “Lyssa,” and Bethany; her close cousin, Patricia Dwyer; and many dear friends who were like family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Aleta Wilburn; her brothers, Ron, Jim, and Wayne Wilburn; and her grandson, Brandon Michael Clair.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Aleta’s life on Friday, November 6, 2026, at Brightmoor Christian Church, 40800 W. 13 Mile Road, Novi, Michigan 48377.

Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by the service at 11:00 a.m.

Arrangements are entrusted to Thayer-Rock Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Missions and Outreach Ministries of Brightmoor Christian Church.