Willie Lee

Claiborne

Our beloved Willie Lee Claiborne peacefully left this world on March 18, 2025. He was born in Surry County, Virginia on April 28, 1935, to the late George and Esther Cooper Claiborne.

Willie proudly served in the United States Air Force for twenty years (23 in total), beginning his service in 1955 at Westover AFB, Springfield, Massachusetts. This was a true testament to his commitment to his country and his willingness to make sacrifices for others. After retiring from the Air Force in 1975, he began a second career at Sears Roebuck and Co., where his strong work ethics and genuine kindness continued to shine. Willie retired with a legacy of integrity and dedication, but it was his presence as a husband, father and grandfather that defined the fullness of his life.

In the early sixties, Willie and Thelma, his beloved wife of sixty-five years, relocated to Spokane, Washington, where they spent more than forty years. After RV'ing across the country for two years, they relocated to Casa Grande, Arizona, which became home, where they developed a number of lifelong friendships. Later, they found themselves back in Virginia, where he could be closer to family, his greatest treasure. Willie was a man of deep faith, serving as a deacon, spending his life serving God and his community. His love for God was evident in the way he lived - through acts of kindness, generosity and compassion. He touched the lives of so many, offering support, wisdom and a listening ear to anyone in need.

A great friend, a steadfast husband, a mentor, an uncle and a loving father and grandfather. Willie's legacy will live on in the countless lives he impacted. His family, his church and his friends will always remember him for his unwavering faith, his kind spirit and his deep love for those he held closest.

Willie Lee Claiborne was preceded in death by his siblings, Frank L. "Johnny" John, William "Buck" Frederick, James "Bob", George and Richard "Dick" Claiborne, Phillip, Douglas, Queen Brown and Mary Butler and stepsons, Stevie and Ricky. He leaves to mourn his beloved wife, Thelma Louise, godchildren, Kendall and Clara Allen, God granddaughters, Ashley Allen and Elisa (Verico) Fleming; a host of nieces and nephews, including Richard Claiborne, Sr., of Richmond, Betty Fitzgerald of Williamsburg; cousins, other relatives and friends.

Remains rest at Scott's Funeral Home, 115 E. Brookland Park Blvd. where viewing will be held from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 26, 2025. Funeral services will be held 11:30 a.m. Thursday, March 27 at Scott's Chapel, 116 E. Brookland Park Blvd. Pastor Terry Harris, Officiant. Interment Virginia Veterans Cemetery, Amelia, Virginia.