Claude K. Elkins, Jr. was born March 14, 1926, in Dickson, TN to the late Claude K. Elkins, Sr. and Mary Donegan Elkins. He passed away peacefully November 17, 2021 at his residence in Springfield, LA. Claude was a graduate of Vanderbilt University’s School of Engineering, a registered professional engineer, and retired as an executive with Bell South. A member of the Greatest Generation, he was a U.S. Army Air Corps veteran of World War II, and was a member of First United Methodist Church of Hammond. He is survived by his children, Janice Elkins Keene (Thomas), of Baton Rouge, LA, Deborah Elkins Kirby (Ed), of Covington, LA, and Claude K. Elkins, III (Nancy), of Willis, TX; eight grandchildren; nine great grandchildren; sister in law, Christine Tanksley, of Madison, TN; and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Claude is preceded in death by his wife of 71 years, Lorene Bilbra Elkins, and a sister, Joanne Elkins Mitchell. Claude will be laid to rest in a private family ceremony at Parklawn Mausoleum, Hammond. Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22478 Oklahoma City, OK 73123, First United Methodist Church of Hammond, 2200 Rue Denise, Hammond, LA 70403, or Traditions Hospice, 303 W. 21st Ave., Covington, LA 70433, c/o E. Powell. Matthew 5:16 KJV, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”
