Classie Ann Claiborne's Obituary
Classie Ann Claiborne leapt into the arms of her Savior on December 26, 2020, in Arlington, Texas, attaining the goal of every Christian believer. She bounded into this world on May 15, 1956, in Shreveport, Louisiana, to the parentage of Eva Mae and Sam Claiborne, Sr., who welcomed her with open and loving arms, not fully understanding then the gift that she would
be to all who knew her. The depth of our sorrow in her loss to us on this side of the veil cannot be fathomed. Our consolation is that she — even now, absent from this world — is present with our Lord, whom she accepted at an early age. Classie was a woman of deep and profound faith, whose
relationship with God centered her life and gave her a servant’s heart.
Classie was a proud 1974 graduate of Booker T. Washington High School in Shreveport. In addition to being a gifted student, Classie was a member of the Marching Band, Concert Band, and Stage Band. She also served as a Drum Majorette, which was an honor that only a few achieved. Classie has always been an active member of the Class of 1974, participating in almost every class event, including providing souvenirs for every reunion and birthday
celebration. A 1978 graduate of Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, Louisiana, with a B.A. in Psychology, she joined the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority while an undergraduate student. Over the years, she faithfully continued her participation in the sorority. With over 42 years of service with AT&T, starting when it was still Southwestern Bell, Classie was respected by both her co-workers and her managers. Always a fervent supporter of unions, she was an active member of Local 6201 of the Communications Workers of America, working over the years in several positions. The Union put it best: Classie was “a faithful member who never wavered.” Several years ago, Classie began a business — “Classic Baloney” — using her eye for detail and her creative talent to produce unique items, including wedding invitations, programs, personalized candy bars, buttons, water bottles, magnets and so much more. In addition, she
was always making remarkable gifts for friends — all of which are still cherished. Named in honor of her great-grandmother, Classie lived up to her name. She was a one-of-akind, never to be duplicated, and irreplaceable joy to her family and friends. Dedication and
faithfulness to whatever she did was always a deeply-ingrained part of her character. She had a strong sense of right and wrong, and was always willing to put herself on the line to defend others.
Classie made everyone who came into her life better. She challenged those she cared about to be their best selves but nevertheless loved us deeply and unconditionally when we failed to hit that mark. A few years ago, she proudly beat back breast cancer. Classie was always “more than a
conqueror.” Classie was preceded in death by her parents, her nephew, Edwin Ramon Claiborne, and three uncles. Classie has carved out spaces in our hearts that we will never fill. She leaves four siblings to
treasure her memory: Mary Ann Hamilton (Henry), Sam Claiborne, Jr., (Debra), Joyce M. Claiborne (Shreveport, Louisiana), and Antoinette M. Claiborne (Shreveport, Louisiana). In addition, she leaves three devoted nephews: Kenyon S. Claiborne (Los Angeles, California), Leander Roque, Jr. (Tageauna), and Devin Claiborne (Shreveport, Louisiana); and three doting
nieces: Kenya Claiborne-Roberts (Marcus), Keyanna Claiborne-Pea (Rodrick), and Ashleigh R. Claiborne (Lewisville, Texas). There are six great nieces and nephews who will be told wonderful and funny stories over and over again about their great-aunt so that they will know her too: Sarah Nicole, Hailey Elizabeth, Maxwell Derell, Dylan Josiah, Kensleigh Corina, and
Yahnya Marie. Only two uncles remain to honor her memory: Andrew Tisdon and James L. Tisdom. She also leaves a wealth of loving cousins, friends, and coworkers who will never forget her. Classie loved all things feline. She was preceded in death by her precious cats: Smokie, Dinkie, Reebok, and Buddy Claiborne. To honor Classie’s memory, a memorial will be held in Fort Worth, Texas, and one in Shreveport, Louisiana, on dates to be determined. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to breast cancer awareness programs in Classie’s honor.
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