- Date Of Birth: May 30, 1940
- Date Of Death: January 28, 2021
- State: California
Reflections of Her Life
Clarice, lovingly also known as ‘Kiis or Kiisy Girl’ was born in Los Angeles California to the late Addie Ella and Clarence K. Penn Sr. She was the second child of five, three sisters; Ella, Beverly and Leslie and one brother, Clarence who was patiently awaiting her arrival in Heaven.
Clarice graduated from Jefferson High school and later received her credentials in the field of Education, which led her to several teaching positions for LAUSD that also included training some of the students to use sign language. She loved working with children, she use to call them all “her babies”. She was truly a very special and inspirational woman. And all the children adored her. She had a way of making them all feel safe.
Kiis was the perfect example of being a Christian, and decided that she would dedicate her life to becoming someone that would motivate others to be the best that they could be. She was always kind in her deeds; always encouraging and honest to those seeking guidance.
She loved studying the Bible, teaching Sunday school, working with the mission, being active in the Prison Ministry outreach program, singing in the choir at Calvary Resurrectional MBC, where she was a faithful member for many years. She also enjoyed being a member of an Afro-Cuban musical group with some of her cousins that performed as The Macumbas.
She actively participated in the programs that fed and gave clothing to the homeless.
Clarice loved the gift of life and explored many different paths to enrich her life. She experienced the joy of parenthood with 11 sons under her loving care. She leaves to mourn her; Lamond, Anthony, Kimo, Pietro, Giovanni, Timoujin, Jesus, Lamont, Eric, Quincy and Ryon as well as a very special Aunt and a host of grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Where can I begin? Oh, I know…! Our Mom was more than just a Mother. She was a true friend who always had time to hear our thoughts and fears. She taught us how to always pray and face our fears and to stand by our word. In other words she would say “Mean what you say, and say what you mean and stand by it.” Our Mom was an angel on this earth and she knew her worth. She’d always say, “I may be on this earth but I’m not of it.” She always had a smile on her face and kind words to say to everybody who came her way. I very seldom knew her to have a bad day. Man…I wish you didn’t have to go away. Our Mom was great. And if I had a chance to pick a Mother, I’d pick her again right away!
We Love You Mom, Sleep with the Angels.
