Aleta Elaine Staton, age 66, of New Haven, CT, departed from this world on July 4, 2024. Born on June 14, 1958, in New Haven, she was the cherished daughter of the late Garland McClam and Mattie Dinkins McClam Lemont.
Aleta dedicated her life to the arts, serving as an esteemed educator and arts administrator, notably at Long Wharf Theater. Her contributions to the cultural landscape of New Haven were profound, leaving an indelible mark as the former Cultural Affairs Commissioner and Chair.
Described as a mom, sister, aunt, mentor, cousin, and friend, Aleta’s kind-hearted nature and wisdom touched many lives. Her gentle soul and unwavering commitment to her community earned her the respect and admiration of all who knew her.
A faithful member of Dixwell Avenue Congregational United Church of Christ, Aleta found solace and strength in her spiritual community.
Left to cherish her memory are her beloved daughter, Jade Staton; sister, Laura McClam-Williams (Stewart Williams); niece, Tia Russell Brockington (James Brockington); nephew, Mario Piña; and a host of great nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
Preceded in death by her brothers Theodore McClam, Garland Andrew McClam, and Mathew McClam, Aleta leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and dedication to the arts.
A celebration of Aleta’s life will be held on Saturday, July 13, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. at Dixwell Avenue Congregational United Church of Christ, located at 217 Dixwell Ave., New Haven. A viewing will precede the service from 1:00-2:00 p.m. The burial will be private.
NOTE: All Comments are Moderated. Please allow up to 24-36 hours for your comment to be posted. Thank you.
Laura & Jade, Wrapping my arms around you in love as I send my sincerest condolences of sympathy on the transitioning of Aleta to an everlasting life. God bless You!
Heartfelt condolences to Jade, family, and friends on the transition of your beloved Mother, Aleta. Your Guardian Angel is with you in your heart as you continue your mission on this journey called life.
My sincere condolences and prayers for Jade and her family. I’m sad that I am unable to there to see her off to your new place in the Lord but I know she’ll keep my alto spot next to her as she sings in that heavenly choir 😇😇
Aleta was my friend and sister from the day I met her. I truly loved her and will miss her soothing voice! Jada and Laura, I send you my deepest condolences. This one hit different!
The Arts Community and Aleta were joined at the hip. I enjoyed working with her so many times . Such a beautiful smile and so talented and learned. She had this passion for teaching young people in the ARTS. She will be sorely missed by all of us. Almost unbelievable!!!!!!
Gloria Richardson and Liston Filyaw
VITAL ELEMENT PRODUCTIONS, INC
Sending heartfelt condolences and love to the family 💕🙏🏽
Eileen Esdaile & family
We are so sorry to hear of your loved one’ passing. Aleta was a tour de force. Our sincerest sympathies to her family.
May her memory be a blessing.
Chris & Phyllis Texeira