Claude Stokes

Claude Stokes, a man who truly knew how to live life to the fullest, passed away on April 21, 2023, at the age of 78. Born on October 10, 1944, in Kentucky, Claude brought laughter and warmth to everyone who knew him. As the great Robin Williams once said, "You're only given a little spark of madness. You mustn't lose it," and Claude certainly never lost his spark.

Growing up in Kildav and Ages, Kentucky, Claude graduated from Brookside High School before moving to California to learn the arts of upholstery and pinstriping. It was there that he discovered his true calling: making cars look fabulous. He brought his newfound talents to Dothan, Alabama in the 1970s, where he would eventually open his own business, Claude's Vinyl Tops. As an upholsterer in the automotive industry, he could upholster anything on a vehicle, truly embracing the motto, "If you can't fix it with duct tape, you're not using enough duct tape."

When he wasn't transforming cars into works of art, Claude could be found hunting, with deer being his favorite quarry. He also enjoyed fishing on Lake Eufaula at White Oak and the Chattahoochee River, where he was known to share hilarious stories with anyone who would listen. Described by those who knew him as loving, selfless, and interesting, Claude was the life of the party and could always be counted on to bring a smile to everyone's face.

Claude is survived by his wife, Glenda Stokes; his children, T.J. (Martha) Swords, Berry Swords, Les (Sue) Widgeon, Misse (Scott) Turner, Christie (Chris) Polk, Lyna (Jim) Hickman, Melissa Redd, and Becky Williams. He was the proud grandfather of Gage Turner, Jaiden Swords, Sonja Tharp, Tess Tharp, Jordan Polk, Tyler Nichols, Jennifer Hickman, Amy Hickman, Hunter Widgeon, and Hannah Widgeon, and the great-grandfather of four. Claude also leaves behind his sisters, Debbie (Steve) Pittman and Sherri (Jasper) Adams, his two special friends Billy Kirkland and Danny Whitehurst, and numerous nieces and nephews who will carry on his legacy of laughter and love.

In the spirit of Claude's comedic nature, we'd like to share a quote from the legendary George Burns: "You know you're getting old when you stoop to tie your shoelaces and wonder what else you could do while you're down there." Claude may have left us, but his humor and zest for life will live on in the memories of all who knew him.

A celebration of Claude's life will be held from 12 Noon to 3 pm on Monday, April 24, 2023 in Sunset Funeral Home Reception Center. As we say our goodbyes to Claude Stokes, let us remember to keep that spark of madness alive, to laugh often, and to cherish the time we have with our loved ones. In the words of another beloved comedian, Bob Hope, "Thanks for the memories, Claude." You will be dearly missed.

 

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