SMSGT Claud Thomas Whitmire, USAF(Ret.)

Claud was born on June 4, 1942 to the late Claude Wylie Whitmire and the late Jessie Leah(Thompson) Whitmire in Spartanburg, South Carolina. He grew up in Spartanburg where he and his family attended the Methodist Church. Following graduation from high school he joined the United States Air Force While stationed at Turner Air Force Base in Albany, Georgia he met Kathleen Jones. After her return from college, the two married on July 28, 1963 in a beautiful garden ceremony. The family began their military journey being stationed at Wright-Patterson, Patrick, Clark, Minot, Kirkland and Finally Dyess. He served his country faithfully in two tours of Vietnam. His expertise in his field was always noticed. He excelled while serving abroad and obtained the favor and trust of his superiors.

In August on 1981 Claud his wife and two daughters made Abilene the family home. After his retirement, he eventually became a contractor at Dyess for Transient Alert. His work ethic was unmatched he had strong convictions that you should not miss work. When not working his love was fishing. In retirement, he often fished multiple times a week. He loved animals and nurturing to them. He also enjoyed the simple pleasures of life staying at home and enjoying Asian cuisine.

He is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Stephen Whitmire; sister, Wilhelmina Brown; and nephew, Jason Whitmire.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Kathleen J. Whitmire; his two daughters, Kathleen Michelle and Vonda Kay and son, Phillip; his cherished siblings, John Michael Whitmire and Stacy Carolyn Gamble; numerous nieces and nephews; his cherished pets, Pepper, Bella and Jake.

He will be laid to rest at the Texas State Veterans Cemetery on Friday, June 7, 2024 at 10:00 AM.