“Do not be afraid, for I am with you. Do not be anxious, for I am your God. I will fortify you, yes, I will help you, I will really hold on to you with my right hand of righteousness.”

Claudette Loretta Smith Thomas was born to the late Emmett and Helen Jean Sharp Smith on March 12, 1949.

Claudette married her husband James Thomas on April 17, 1981 in Dallas, Texas. Together they raised four children while she was a homemaker.

Later in life, Claudette was employed as a housekeeping supervisor until her retirement in 1995.

Claudette, known affectionately as Loretta dedicated her life to Jehovah and remained a part of the Mansfield congregation until she was no longer able to attend onsite.

Claudette enjoyed writing, making crafts, cooking, baking, and working outside in her garden.

Claudette passed away on December 21, 2025. She is survived by her four children: Daun Jackson (Charles) of Mansfield, Vonetta Roberson (Mark) of Clearwater, Florida, Christopher Vanzant Thomas (Dewonia) of San Diego, California, and Jason Thomas of York, Pennsylvania; sisters: Linda Shannon (Willie), of Houston, Texas, Patricia Sarpy of Natchitoches, Louisiana, Yvette Smith of Porter, Texas, Arlette Thomas of Mansfield; aunt: Josephine Volsey of Mansfield; grandchildren: Robyn, Carly, Amber, Vyctorya, Dominick, Carissa, Christa, Jada, Jason Jr., Jacob, three great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.