The Garden Island
Notice #: 0001272039-01
Funeral Notices


CLARA KU’UALOHA BRITO SABAS

Clara Ku’ualoha Brito Sabas passed away peacefully on January 13, 2020, on her beloved island of Molokai. She was born in Mapulehu, on the east side of Molokai, to Caesar and Clara Brito on February 16, 1926.

After attending Kilohana School, Clara went on to graduate from the Kamehameha School for Girls in 1944. Early in her career, she worked for Judge Stanley Ashford, and in 1980, she retired as Coordinator of State Department of Health Services for the island of Molokai.

During her lifetime, Clara was an active voice for providing access to quality health care on Molokai. As a member of the Molokai General Hospital Board, she supported the merger with Queen’s Hospital as a way to best improve health care options on the island. She also served on the County Committee on Aging, Molokai Health Foundation Board, and with the Hospice and Literacy programs.

Clara was a member of the 1970’s State-County Coastal Zone Management Committee, comprised of individuals from diverse sectors to provide input on the State Coastal Management Plan. It became the foundation for today’s laws protecting Hawaii’s shorelines and natural resources. Also, as an active supporter of Hui Alaloa, Clara advocated for the people’s, and in particular, Native Hawaiian rights to the ocean and mountains.

Those who knew and loved Clara will miss her elegant presence, generous heart, devotion to family and community, and her wearing of a lauhala hat, or a beautiful flower in her hair.

Clara is survived by her children: sons John (Jennifer), Michael, Barry (Mary), and daughter Rinda (Frank) Fernandes: eight grand- children; seven great-grandchildren; sisters Dorcas and Edith; nephews, nieces, cousins. She was preceded in death by John, her loving husband of nearly 65 years, sisters Florence, Viola, Alma, Dorothy, Tina, Etta, and brother Robert.

Molokai services will be held on Saturday, April 11, at 165 Kolapa Place, mauka of the Kaunakakai Gym and Police Station. Visitation at 9 AM. Services at 10 AM. Clara will join her husband at Puowaina (Punchbowl National Cemetery). Private services on O’ahu.