Claude Waverly Carter

Our beloved Claude Waverly Carter peacefully departed this life at the age of 85 to rest eternally with the Lord on Monday, July 13, 2026. Born to the late Claude and Donie Carter on March 16, 1941, in Franklin, VA, Claude’s life was a beautiful tapestry of devotion to his family, his country, and his community. Claude grew up in Franklin, VA, where he attended public schools and graduated from Hayden High School with the proud Class of 1961. Driven by a passion for creativity and service, he pursued higher education at Norfolk State University, successfully earning his Associate’s Degree in Culinary Arts. In December 1963, Claude answered a profound calling to protect his nation by enlisting in the United States Army. With immense courage, honor, and patriotism, he served on active duty until October 1969, which included a distinguished and brave tour of duty in Vietnam during the Vietnam War. His deep commitment to his country extended long after his active deployment, as he continued to serve with distinction for many years in the Army Reserves until his honorable retirement. Following his military service, Claude transitioned his strong work ethic to civil service, embarking on an exemplary 30-year career with the United States Postal Service, where he served with pride as an official United States Postal Service Career City Letter Carrier. Dedicated to the safety and well-being of his neighbors, Claude also gave back to his local community by serving part-time as an Auxiliary Police Officer for the City of Chesapeake. The absolute cornerstone of Claude's life was his beautiful family. On January 3, 1965, Claude married the love of his life, Jean Marie Bowers. From this union two beautiful children were born, Waverly Eugene and Sonia Yvette. Lovingly called “Waverly” by his dear wife Jean, Claude was a devoted husband, father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle and friend. He made numerous friends wherever he went and never met a stranger. He was always willing to help his family and friends. He found his greatest happiness when surrounded by his family, especially his cherished grandchildren. Claude accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as his personal Savior at an early age, establishing a lifelong foundation of faith. He loved the Lord and often thanked God for his many blessings. For many years, Brother Claude was a faithful member of First Baptist Church Camelot. Over the years at Camelot, he served in the Senior Choir, Men’s Chorus and the Men’s Fellowship Ministry. Entrusted with leadership, he served faithfully as both a Deacon and a Trustee, working diligently to maintain the church finances, building, and grounds, while constantly promoting spiritual growth. He later joined and regularly attended Solid Rock Baptist Church, continuing his walk of faith until his health began to fail. Throughout his illness, God had been his source of strength allowing him to navigate chronic health challenges. He never once complained about his circumstances; instead, his endurance during his long-term illness beautifully demonstrated his absolute trust in God’s promises. Claude had a great love for fellowship, music and sports and was very loyal to his beloved Dallas Cowboys. His community involvement was extensive, serving joyfully as the Treasurer of the Camelot Senior Citizens Club and the Chaplain of the Camelot Civic League for many years. Claude was preceded in death by his daughter, Sonia Carter; two sisters, Edith Ballentine and Ellen Matthews; one brother-in-law Fred Ciurczak. Though his kindhearted presence will be sorely missed, he will forever live in the treasured memories of those who knew and loved him. Those who celebrate his life and cherish his loving memory include his devoted wife of sixty-one years, Jean; son, Waverly Carter (Tonya) of Baltimore, MD; five grandchildren, Kayla Weeks (Rondell) of Jacksonville, NC, Devon Carter (Jasmine) of Dallas, TX, Andrew Brown of Houston, TX, Johnathan and Faith Carter of Baltimore, MD; five great-grandchildren Rondell Jr. “RJ” and Urijah Weeks of Jacksonville, NC, Kai and Christian Carter of Dallas, TX, and Alora Brown of Houston, TX; three sisters, Donie Ciurczak of Freehold, NJ, Marjorie Myers (James) of Lancaster, PA and Josephine “Jody” Parncutt (Gary) of Lancaster, PA; seven brothers, Hosea Carter (Sylvia) of Lancaster, PA, Walter Carter of Woodbridge, VA, George Carter (Dot) of Onset, MA, Larry Carter (Sandra) of Chesapeake, VA, Norman Carter (Debra) of Rayford, NC, Isaac Carter (Denise) of Lancaster, PA; and Albert Carter (Flowella) of Lancaster, PA; one brother-in-law, Virnest Young (Yvonne) of Suffolk, VA; one special god-daughter, Addison Johnson of Chesapeake, VA, and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Sorrowfully Submitted, The Family “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” II Timothy 4:7

Claude Waverly Carter

March 16, 1941 - July 13, 2026