Claude Earl Whitaker of Baytown, Texas left his residence on earth for his heavenly home Monday, May 17, 2021. Claude was born in Nacogdoches, Texas, the oldest son of Claude Whitaker and Fannie Mae (Hyde) Whitaker. Claude attended E.J. Campbell High School, the home of the mighty Green & Gold Dragons. He was an athlete in high school; his best sport was track as a sprinter and hurdler. Claude's love for fishing was developed by his grandparents. His love for fishing was only matched by his love for cooking and eating his catch. He thoroughly enjoyed planning weekend fishing trips with his siblings and later in life with his wife Mary. Although he enjoyed occasional deep sea fishing, there was nothing better to him than standing on the banks of a river, lake, stream or ocean trying to catch "the big one" that would not get away.

Throughout his working career, Claude always demonstrated a strong work ethic. He would sometimes take an entry level position but would eventually work his way into a leadership position. In his retirement years, he loved to give advice, either solicited or unsolicited with a sense of humor. His reasoning was: he lived faster than most of us and experienced more than many of us. Therefore, why not try to help in any way possible, the rest of us.

Claude accepted the Lord in his life and was a member of Mt. Calvary Baptist Church. Claude witnessed to his children and encouraged them to have the Lord in their lives and to walk by faith. His last years were some of his best years thanks to the support of Mary Ann, his sons, neighbors and friends. Claude leaves to cherish his memory his children: Vincent Whitaker, Claude Whitaker Jr., Anthony (Karen) Whitaker Sr., Bruce Whitaker, Edna Whitaker, Andre Flowers, Joy and his siblings, Robert (Jean) Whitaker, Sr., Kevin Whitaker, Amelonee Amie; 12 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and cousins who all loved him dearly. Claude was preceded in death by his parents.