Claire Penland Walker

Claire Penland Walker, a woman with a heart as big as her wardrobe and a wit sharper than her kitchen knives, took her final bow on July 5, 2023. Born in Lincolnton, Georgia on April 29, 1938, passed away at Ashton Senior Living Facility in Gainesville, Georgia. Alzheimer's may have stolen her mind, but it never touched her soul or her sense of humor.

The heavenly gates surely swung wide open to greet Claire, preceded in death by her parents Ella Cooper Penland and Leon "Tobe" Penland, Sr. She leaves behind a loving husband, Allen Walker, of 54 years, a daughter Marjorie Walker Cundy and husband Ron of Marietta, GA, two grandchildren Allen Ross Cundy and Ella Claire Cundy also of Marietta, GA, a sister Charlene Padgett of Lincolnton, GA., a brother Leon Penland Jr., of Hilton Head South Carolina, a first cousin Shirley Hogan also of Lincolnton, GA, and nieces and nephews.

Claire was a woman of many talents. She graduated as Salutatorian from Lincoln County High School in 1956, proving that beauty and brains weren't mutually exclusive. In addition to this honor, she won a state title for typing. She then took her typing skills to Tift College before transferring to an Augusta Business School. She could type faster than most people could talk, and with far fewer mistakes.

Her love for business began as a child, working at her Aunt and Uncle's dime store in Lincolnton (Mildred and Hughes Willingham). Her first job was the title of Secretary for a railroad company. This sparked a career in banking that lasted over three decades. She was the Manager of the Tax and Insurance Department at Home Federal Bank in Augusta. Upon retirement, she started a small catering company, Bountiful Baskets 'N More. She loved to plan menus and cook for various local events along with excellent help from several people ensuring that the event would be spectacular.

Claire's faith was a cornerstone of her life. She served as a Sunday School teacher and Treasurer at First Assembly of God in Lincolnton for over 25 years. She was also a loyal member of the Lion's Club and the Pine Needle Garden Club. She was known for her service, her love for the Lord, and a knack for delegating tasks to her husband, especially when it involved her beloved garden.

Shopping was not just a hobby for Claire; it was a lifestyle. She had a keen eye for beautiful things, from clothes to china to embroidered towels. Her home was always open, and her hospitality was legendary. She believed in thank you notes, respecting your elders, and that coffee tasted better from a china cup. She was a woman of class and sassy remarks.

Claire also had a deep love for music. She played the piano and organ, often spontaneously breaking into hymns. She wasn't a risk-taker, but she was a faith-filled woman full of knowledge. Her daughter always thought she was the smartest person in the room, and Claire never corrected her.

Traveling with her husband brought her great joy. She returned from each trip with exciting stories and a few new knick-knacks. Her zest for life was contagious, and her laughter was the best medicine.

In conclusion, Claire Penland Walker was a woman of grace, humor, and incredible strength. Her faith and love for her family were her guiding lights. She will be remembered for her laughter, her kindness, and her ability to find the perfect outfit for any occasion. Heaven is undoubtedly a livelier place with her there. So, here's to Claire, a woman who lived her life with faith, humor, and a whole lot of style.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 11, 2023 from 7pm until 9pm at Beggs Funeral Home in Lincolnton with funeral services being held on Wednesday, July 12, 2023 at 11am at First Assembly of God, Lincolnton with Revs. Lanis Lewis, Terry Bonds and Michael McBride officiating followed by interment in Lincolnton City Cemetery.

Beggs Funeral Home, Lincolnton is honored to serve the family of Mrs. Claire Penland Walker.