Claude Ferdinand Kilby

Claude Ferdinand Kilby, 84, of Clayton, GA, passed away Tuesday, October 11, 2011. He was born in Rabun County and was the son of the late Ferd Cartilue and Oza Christine Coffee Kilby.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife of 60 years, Evelyn Grace Watts Kilby in 2007; and three brothers, Coyt Kilby, Carl Kilby, and Furman Kilby and a son-in-law, Gene Thompson.

Claude is survived by two daughters, Claudia Thompson of Clayton, Sylvia Shook and her husband Danny of Clayton; five brothers, Curtis Kilby of Persimmon, Jimmy Kilby of Mountain City, Fred Kilby of Persimmon, Dwight Kilby of Oakwood, GA, Deleano Kilby of Tiger; two sisters, Christine Kilby Lee of Clayton, Brenda Kilby of Persimmon, and a beloved brother-in-law, Lewis Watts of Hickory, NC. Also surviving are three grandchildren, Donna Shook Bryant, Ryan Thompson and Kyle Shook; and five great-grandchildren, Danielle, Miya, Delayna, Aidan, Kyla; and several dear nieces and nephews.

He was a carpenter by trade, and was a member of Persimmon Church of God for forty plus years and was a past member of Persimmon Fire Department. Above all else, he loved his Lord and family. He enjoyed hunting and fishing. Played basketball in high school and in a men's softball league for many years. Claude coached Persimmon's Women's Soft Ball league and also played banjo and enjoyed bluegrass and gospel music.

The family will receive friends at Beck Funeral Home Wednesday, October 12, 2011 from 6 PM to 8 PM. Funeral Services will be held at Persimmon Church of God Thursday, October 13, 2011 at 11 AM with Pastor Teddy King and Rev. Glenville Nichols officiating. Burial will follow in Persimmon Community Cemetery.

Donations in memory of Claude Kilby may be made to Persimmon Church of God Building Fund, Persimmon Fire Department, or to the American Alzheimer's Association, 855 Abutment Road, Suite 6, Dalton, GA 30721

Beck Funeral Home, in Clayton, Georgia, is in charge of the arrangements. If there are any questions, please call 706-782-9599. An online Memorial Register Book is available at www.beckfuneralhome.com.