CARLA JEAN DEAR is a hero despite losing her long battle with uterine cancer. She leaves behind not survivors, but family and friends blessed from having known such a wonderful person. Carla excelled in art, winning several contests, including one that led to recognition from First Lady Lady Bird Johnson. She was a prolific producer of hand-painted stained glass and magnificent quilts. Her artistic skills however, paled in comparison to her dedication to her family. She leaves behind a legacy of two energetic grandchildren, Nicholas and Nicole. Carla's daughter Kimberly continues her mother's tradition of compassion as an emergency room administrator at an Austin hospital. Carla's son Brian, a 2002 Texas A&M graduate will soon be leaving to become an officer in the US Army, following her advice to be a leader and not a follower. Carla's husband Dwight maintained a constant vigil during her battle against cancer. His dedication and love for Carla set an example that others can only hope to emulate. They were married May 28, 1971 and during nearly 32 years together, their love was constant as the ocean deep. Words cannot begin to describe the wonderful person that was Carla. Her upbeat personality and ability to make the world's best chocolate chip cookies never failed to make everyone around her smile. She always put others first and lived so that others could become their very best. Everyone who knew her will miss her. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 6:00 - 8:00 at Klein Funeral home. Services will be 10:00 a.m. Wednesday at Champion Forest Baptist Church with the Rev. Wallace B. Cobb officiating.