Dates
Today, we gather not only to mourn the passing of Claudette, but to celebrate a life that was small in stature but mighty in spirit. Born on July 25, 1935, in Campwood, Texas, to her loving parents Laura and Paul Whipkey, Claudette’s journey began in a small town but her impact was immeasurable. She lived a full 90 years before passing away on September 12, 2025.
Claudette was a firecracker—fierce, funny, and full of life. She never met a stranger. If you crossed her path, she made you feel like family.
In 1953, she married the love of her life, George, and together they built a family and a lifetime of memories. She loved fiercely—with all her heart. Her family meant the world to her, and the Campwood family reunions were some of her favorite moments—gatherings filled with laughter, food, and love. Claudette’s heart was big enough to include not just her children and grandchildren, but every child she met. The children of the world held a special place in her soul.
She is now reunited with her beloved husband George, and we find peace knowing they are together again. She leaves behind her loving family:
• Her sons: Ronnie, with his wife Lynn, and George “Tinker,” with his wife Jennie.
• Her cherished grandsons: Frank, with his wife Abby; Ben, with his wife Kristen; and Brett, with his wife Jennifer.
• Her adored great-grandchildren: Colt Sahr and his mom Taylor, Madyson, Alenna, Cheyenne, and Haylee.
Each one of them carries a piece of Claudette’s fire, her humor, and her boundless love. She loved them deeply, and they were the pride of her life.
Ronnie, her baby boy, always knew how to make her smile. He’d ask her, “What do you want as a souvenir?” and she’d simply say, “Just buy me something pretty.” And when he’d ask what she wanted to eat, she’d reply, “Anything you cook.” That bond was something special, and it spoke to the kind of mother Claudette was—easy to please, full of love, and always grateful.
Claudette had her passions. She was unbeatable at bingo and could work a puzzle with the same determination she brought to life. Her yard was her sanctuary—filled with flowers and fairy garden treasures that she loved gifting to her daughter-in-law. In those little details, she found and spread joy.
She had a sweet tooth for baking—her famous pecan pralines could win over anyone—and she had the rare strength to drink Crown straight, maybe the only one in the family who could! She loved Ronnie’s catfish, appreciated good food, good company, and good music. If there was dancing, you’d find Claudette near the front, smiling and swaying to the rhythm of life.
Her fashion sense was all her own—bold leggings and cozy cardigans were her signature look. Every time you see a pair out in the world, think of Claudette. Think of her smile, her sass, and that unstoppable spirit.
She was a woman of deep faith and strong values. She stood firm in what she believed in and never backed down. A true God-fearing woman, she appreciated her blessings and gave thanks every day.
I remember her saying, during a trip to Del Rio, that she knew it would be her last. But she wanted it to be memorable—and it was. That Fourth of July, like so many moments in her life, was filled with meaning, beauty, and celebration.
Claudette taught us to love with everything we have, to laugh even when life gets tough, to dance when the music plays, and to never turn away a stranger. Her legacy is one of love, generosity, and a spark that never dimmed.
Pallbearers
Claudette will be honored and carried to her final resting place by the following pallbearers:
• Frank Wipff
• Ben Wipff
• Brett Wipff
• Espy Whitehead
• JP Whipkey
• Van Robert Hamilton
These six men, representing both family and friendship, will carry Claudette with love, just as she carried each of them in her heart.
Rest well, Claudette. You lived life to the fullest—and we are all better for having known you.