Claude Smith

(1942 - 2011)

Claude L. Smith, 68 of Athens went to be with his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, September 7, 2011 at 5:30 a.m. in Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, MO. He was born September 16, 1942 in Oakford, the son of John S. and Ethel (Thomas) Smith. Claude married Joyce Braden in 1972.

He is survived by his wife, Joyce of Athens; daughter Cathy (Steve) Jewell of Athens and son Leonard (Jaclyn) Jenkins of Athens, grandchildren Gemini, Skyla, Tyler, Kaylyn and Carter all of Athens and sister Mary Bennett of Petersburg. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister Wanda Klokkenga.

Claude was a member of New Life Baptist Church in Athens where he was director of the Outreach Ministry, as well as a member of the Men’s Ministry. He greatly enjoyed cooking and prepared food at several restaurants around the area, he was later one of the owners of the Triple R Restaurant in Athens.

Funeral service will be Saturday, September 10, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. in the New Life Baptist Church with the Rev. Milton Crain officiating. Visitation will be Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until time of service in the church. Burial to follow in Oakland Cemetery in Petersburg. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the New Life Baptist Church, Athens.

Online memorial messages for his family may be left at www.hurleyfh.com

Hurley Funeral Home in Petersburg is in charge of arrangements.