During the morning of Monday, December 19, 2022, Deacon Ronnie O’Neal Clauden closed his eyes and entered eternal rest. He was born on September 3, 1953, in Halifax County, VA, to the late Stephen Claughton and Bertha Murphy Claughton.

He was baptized and became a member of Owens Grove Baptist Church in his youth. He served in many capacities at Owens Grove, including deacon, trustee, president of the Usher Board, Sunday school teacher, chairman of the Sunday School Committee, and a member of Owens Grove Adult Choir. He was faithful in his work at Owens Grove and gladly served when asked. In addition to his work at Owens Grove, he was a member of the Bostonaires. He attended Mary Bethune High School and later received his G.E.D. He was a dedicated employee of J. P. Stevens until the facility closed. After which, he received his C.N.A. certification and worked at Woodview Nursing Home in South Boston. During his leisure time, he enjoyed working around his home in Cluster Springs, hunting, fishing, and singing. On December 22, 1974, he was united in marriage to Diane Smith. Deacon Clauden was a faithful servant to his home, church, and community.

Those who hold special memories of Deacon Clauden include his wife, Diane Clauden, of 47 years; his three sons: Bryant Clauden (fiancé Monecia), Lamont Clauden (Allison), and Kevin Cameron (Jacqueline), all of South Boston; sisters and brothers, who were there with him throughout his good and bad times, Steven Claughton, Jr. (Verdell), Louise Gwynn, Larry Clauden (Lottie), Patrica Brown, Shelia Clay (David), Moses Claughton, Jerome Claughton (Joyce), Brenda Claughton, Everett Claughton (Kim) and Michael Claughton.

He was blessed to have five grandchildren: Akiah, Kyla, Jade, KeVonn, and Kayla; and two great-grandchildren. He was affectionately known as Papa Ronnie and served his role quietly and lovingly. A loving mother-in-law, Lottie Mae Smith; two sisters-in-law: Ione Bailey (Nathan) and Denise Smith; one brother-in-law, Jesse Smith; a wonderful host of nieces, nephews, and good friends from the community and various places whom he loved dearly. In addition to the family, Deacon Clauden had three exceptional caregivers who were patient with him and gave him excellent care, Mary Lipscomb, Jalessa Miller, and Sandra Kincy. He was preceded in death by a sister, Juanita Tuck.

Deacon Clauden was a kind and humble man who courageously endured his sickness. Even though he has left his earthly home, we know we will meet again on that beautiful shore.

Funeral services for Deacon Ronnie O’Neal Clauden will be Tuesday, December 27th at 11 a.m. at Owens Grove Baptist Church with Pastor John Leigh, eulogist. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

Public viewing for family and friends will be Friday, December 23rd from 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. at Jeffress Funeral Home.

Funeral services are provided by Jeffress Funeral Home, 2000 North Main Street, South Boston, VA.