Claudette Berzat

Claudette Thomas Berzat was the 2nd child born to Mary Alice and John E. Thomas Sr. on October 14, 1951, In Houston, Texas. Claudette was raised in Third Ward, Houston, TX.  She attended Blackshire Elementary, Ryan Middle School and graduated from Worthing E. High School in 1970. She was  baptized at Hollman Street Baptist Church and a choir member, she continued her faith in Christ until she was called home to be with our Heavenly Father.

Claudette met Russell in 1971 at his job in Downtown, Houston, Texas. After two years of courtship Claudette and Russell were united in holy matrimony on November 3, 1973, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church.  From this union, 2 children were born; Dana Michelle Berzat and Lakeysha Berzat-Blayne.

Claudette attended Houston Community College and had a love for children. She furthered her career in Education by working for various schools with HISD and FBISD. Claudette worked as an Teacher’s Aide with HISD from 1971-1975, With her main focus on family, she returned to work in 1979 as a membership clerk with the Houston Teachers Association after she had her two daughters. She also helped her aunt by working at her business; U.S. Passport Picture. For ten years she dedicated her time and service to her kids by volunteering at each school they attended; McGregor Elementary, Lanier Middle School & Willowridge High School. Claudette received many awards and certificates of Appreciation from; Girl Scouts of America (San Jacinto Council, 1987), Houston ISD for Outstanding Service in the Volunteer Program (ViPS) 1987-1990; Fort Bend ISD Staff Service Award 2004- Five Years of Service; Hightower High School- Future Business Leaders of America (2004, 2008 & 2011); Recognition for her contribution to American Education (2003); Faculty Recognition (2011). She was nicknamed Rubber Band: Flexible and “Rolls with the Punches”.

Claudette was a loving soul. Always looking out and doing for others. Despite her health challenges, she was diligent in her fight to remain strong during her challenges. She loved cooking for her family and enjoying the company of family and friends. Claudette’s nurturing spirit extended way beyond Dana & Lakeysha. She naturally extended herself and her warmth to become everyone’s mom; known as “Mrs. Berzat “. Her greatest pride was becoming a grandmother to Drake Aidan Blayne in 2005. She left the school district to become his caretaker until he could go to preschool. Which didn’t stop there, she carried the same principles and volunteered at his school and sport organizations; Longfellow Elementary & Pearland Little League. Drake was her Pride and Joy. 

Claudette departed this earthly life on May 1, 2026, at her home in Missouri City, TX. Claudette was preceded in death by her parents Mary Alice & John E Thomas Sr.; her two sisters, Marilyn Harris, Jacquelyn Stephens; her sister-in-law, Betty Berzat, her brother-in-law, Malcom Berzat. She is survived by her devoted husband of  52 years; her daughters, Dana Michelle Berzat, Lakeysha Renee Berzat-Blayne (Terrance) her grandson, Drake Aidan Blayne; her brother, John E. Thomas Jr. (Sheila); her sister, Rosemary Joy Thomas; her nieces and nephews; Nicole Pigram, April Thomas, Justin Thomas, Malitha Thomas, Johnetta Thomas, LaShon Berzat, LaMona Berzat, Anastacia Berzat, Patrick Berzat, Marcus Berzat, Joseph Berzat, Tiffany Berzat, her Aunt, Anna Lois Smith and a host of cousins and friends.