George Thomas Claude

George Thomas Claude, age 84, of Bellbrook, passed away peacefully on September 19, 2026. Tom was born in Dayton, Ohio on September 24, 1941 to the late George and Helen Claude.

He attended Our Lady of Mercy grade school, graduated from Chaminade High School, Class of 1959, and was a member of St. Francis of Assisi in Centerville for almost 50 years. He worked at NCR and retired from Delco Products. As a car parts designer, he developed several patents throughout his career and earned the 1999 “Boss” Kettering Award.

In 1966, Tom married his beloved wife, Diana, with whom he shared 60 beautiful years together. A devoted family man, Tom was also a handyman who enjoyed building things for his children. If it was broken, Dad could fix it! Even today, his children still have the rocking horse, doll furniture, and bookcases that he made for them. Tom learned his skills in building when he helped his dad build their new house when he was 15. He was always proud of the work that left his hands.

Tom was an avid outdoorsman his entire life, enjoying camping, mushroom hunting, spending days at his cottage at Indian Lake, and above all else, fishing. Tom was such a good fisherman, it was said that he could catch a fish in a puddle on the side of the road. He took great pride in sharing this passion and teaching his children and grandchildren how to fish.

Tom will be most remembered for his quick wit and good humor. He loved to laugh, tease, and make jokes. Tom’s personality brought warmth and joy to everyone he encountered and his passing will be mourned deeply by everyone who knew and loved him.

Tom is preceded in death by his parents, George and Helen Claude, and a brother, John.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory his wife, Diana; 4 children, Cathleen Claude, Lori (Shane) Davis, Debra (Michael) Ross, and Daniel (Natalie) Claude; 7 grandchildren, Brandon, Abigail, Elise, Bradley, Victor, Tyler, and Layla; a sister, Patricia (Don) Croswell; and a brother, Joseph (Barb) Claude.

Family was everything to Tom. A dedicated husband, father, grandfather, and friend, he will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His friends and family take great comfort in knowing that he has “gone fishing”.

Visitation will be Monday, October 12, 2026 from 11:00am to 12:30pm at St. Francis of Assisi Church, (6245 Wilmington Pike, Centerville, OH), followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 12:30pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation (Click HERE to donate).

To share a memory of George or leave a special message for his family, please visit the Guestbook below.