Students engaging in art, inspired by their beloved teacher.
Memphis has come together to mourn the loss of Elizabeth Cloar Burle, a cherished art teacher who passed away on January 3, 2025. Known for her vibrant personality and dedication to education, Libba, as she was affectionately called, enriched the lives of countless students and community members. Her artistic legacy and love for family and animals will be remembered by all who knew her. A memorial service honoring her life and contributions was held on January 8, 2025.
Memphis, Tennessee, is coming together to remember the vibrant life of Elizabeth Cloar Burle, affectionately known as Libba, who passed away on January 3, 2025. Libba’s unexpected departure has left a significant void in the hearts of her family, friends, and countless students. She was only 56 years old and had a flair for living life creatively.
Libba was born on June 11, 1968, in Laurel, Mississippi, to Bette Stephens Green and Frank Thomas Cloar. Growing up in Mississippi, she developed her artistic talents and a passion for teaching from a young age. After moving to Memphis, Libba pursued her education at The Lausanne Collegiate School, Central High School, and Rhodes College. At Rhodes, she attained her Bachelor of Arts degree in Fine Arts, solidifying her commitment to the art world.
Throughout her career, Libba dedicated herself to sharing her love of art. She served as an art teacher in various programs, including the Lausanne Summer Program in Memphis, and the University of Jackson Middle School in Jackson, Tennessee, where she skillfully taught both French and art. In addition, Libba contributed to community projects by teaching pottery at Indianola Community College in Indianola, Mississippi, and hosting an art program at the renowned Walter Anderson Museum of Art Summer Program in Ocean Springs, Mississippi.
Libba’s commitment to the arts extended beyond the classroom. She even curated an art solo exhibition by Carroll Cloar at the Weatherby House, showcasing her dedication to promoting artistic talent in her community. As an active member of the Mississippi Art Education Association, Libba embodied everything that it meant to be an educator and artist.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Libba cherished her time spent with family. She is survived by her two sons, William Louis Burle and John Ethan Burle, her loving mother Bette Green, step-father William Green, and brother Frank Thomas Cloar, Jr. (Julie). Libba was also an adoring aunt to her niece and three nephews, all of whom she loved dearly.
Many knew Libba not just for her artistic gifts, but also for her warm heart and hobbies. She enjoyed cooking and gardening, indulging in the simple pleasures of life. Libba even brought her artistic talents into her pet portraits, capturing the essence of furry friends on canvas. Her love for animals also led her to volunteer at the Leland Animal Shelter, where she made a positive impact on the local community.
With her father’s passing, Libba’s family and friends gathered to celebrate her life. Services were conducted by Memory Chapel Funeral Home, including a visitation at the funeral home and a graveside service at Lake Park Cemetery on January 8, 2025. The service was officiated by Bro. Parry Bridges, bringing together many who adored Libba.
A guestbook has been made available online for those wishing to sign and pay their respects at www.memorychapellaurel.com. Libba Cloar Burle leaves behind not just a legacy of creativity and love, but also a community that is deeply grateful for the memories she created and the lives she touched.
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