Hannah Pearl Clarke

Remembering Hannah Pearl Clarke (1991-2025)

Hannah Pearl Clarke was a creative at her core, her vibrant spirit shining through every aspect of her life. From her successful career as a nail artist to her expert cooking, love for makeup, skincare, fashion, and home décor (especially during Halloween and Christmas), Hannah infused everything she touched with her fierce determination, unmatched creativity, and an ability to find joy in the smallest details. Her bold and brilliant approach to life has inspired everyone lucky enough to know her.

Hannah will be deeply missed by her loving partner, Sonia Benito, and their beloved pup, Oso; her sister, Eleanor Clarke; her parents, Lorraine Clarke and Paul Clarke; her best friends, Chantel Nash and me, Elyse Moland; and the countless friends whose lives she touched with her love, humor, and kindness.

Sonia and Hannah’s love story was one of beauty, growth, and profound connection—a love so pure and vibrant it uplifted everyone fortunate enough to witness it. Tragically, this story took an unthinkable turn on January 16th, when we lost Hannah to a sudden brain injury caused by an unknown preexisting condition. That evening, we learned that even if the condition had been detected earlier, it would not have been operable. While this knowledge brings a small measure of peace, what we hold closest to our hearts is the time we had with Hannah—a bold, funny, sassy, and endlessly creative firecracker of a woman.

As one of Hannah’s best friends, I had the privilege of witnessing the last decade of her life—a time when she truly blossomed. She became a woman who knew who she was, what she wanted, and had the courage and talent to chase her dreams. In 2017, she met Sonia, the love of her life. Like two birds finding their perfect match, they were drawn to each other instantly. Together, they didn’t just live—they soared.

In the nearly eight years they spent together, Sonia and Hannah lifted each other to new heights. They grew in confidence, happiness, and success, both as individuals and as a couple. One of my favorite memories captures their love in its simplest, most beautiful form: Sonia leading Hannah around their kitchen, turning it into a bachata dance floor. Hannah’s giggles filled the air as she twirled, their movements perfectly in sync—a gorgeous metaphor for their life together.

They supported each other’s dreams and celebrated each other’s victories, always providing encouragement and love. Their partnership was a testament to true love—a relationship built on mutual respect, shared goals, and unwavering support.

Hannah and Sonia’s story began at a fitness studio where they worked in 2017, and like magnets, they were immediately drawn together. What followed was a whirlwind of adventures—to Disney Paris, exploring New York City, finding their first home together, and creating a life filled with love. A highlight of their journey was welcoming their puppy, Oso, who completed their family and brought them endless joy.

Just this past November, they celebrated their seven-year anniversary, reflecting on their incredible journey and dreaming of their future together. Marriage was on the horizon, and they envisioned one day retiring in Spain with a home full of dogs—a shared dream that felt like heaven.

But life is unpredictable and sometimes unbearably cruel. On January 13th, Hannah was rushed into emergency surgery. The days that followed were filled with hope and heartbreak, and when we lost her on January 16th, the world felt quieter, as though a beautiful song had ended far too soon.

Hannah was one of the brightest lights I’ve ever known—a woman who lived fully, loved fiercely, and inspired everyone around her. Her vibrant spirit and the love she shared with Sonia will be remembered forever.

We are raising funds through GoFundMe to help relieve the financial burden for Sonia during this time of unimaginable grief. These contributions will also help Sonia and her family plan a celebration of life that reflects the beauty of our girl Hannah and honors the incredible life she lived.

Rest in peace, Hannah. You will forever be missed, always loved, and remembered as the brilliant soul who lifted all of us higher.