Claude Wayne Teet, of Centerville, Tennessee, died peacefully at his home on January 2, 2025, at the age of 81 years. Claude was born in Kaufman, Texas, on September 10, 1943, to the late Claude B. and Anna Elizabeth Smith Teet. Claude was the fourth of five children, with sisters Betty Dunham and Nancy Ybarra preceding him in death and is survived by his sister Charlsie Duncan of Boise, Idaho, and brother James Teet of San Antonio, Texas.

Growing up in Sacramento, California, Claude graduated from Sacramento High School before joining the United States Army. As a paratrooper with the 101st Airborne Division stationed at Ft. Campbell, Kentucky, he forged lifelong friendships, including one with Wilson McCaleb, a fellow soldier from Hickman County. During visits to Centerville with Wilson, Claude met the love of his life, Glenda Faye Field, at Pete’s Drive-In Restaurant. Known for his playful teasing, Claude charmed Glenda by calling her name repeatedly when he saw her in her cheerleading uniform. Their bond grew into a marriage that began in 1964 and culminated in the celebration of their 60th anniversary on April 25, 2024.

Claude and Glenda made their home in Centerville where they raised their children Chris (Jenny) Teet, Tina Teet, and Richie (Laura) Teet. Claude enjoyed a 33-year career with Southern Bell, which later became Bell South and then AT&T, installing phone services across Hickman County alongside his friend and colleague Leon Gilbert. In retirement, he kept busy driving a school bus for the Hickman County School system for 10 years.

After leaving active duty, Claude was a member of the Tennessee Army National Guard and retired in 2015 with 29 years of total military service. For many years he was a member of the Centerville Jaycees, the Masonic Lodge, and the Knights of Pythias. He also found joy in woodworking and his passion for cars, which he could discuss enthusiastically for hours. And as many have seen while driving by their house, mowing his lawn.

He was a member of the Centerville Church of Christ and cherished time with his family. He is survived by grandchildren, Nick Batts, Grady Teet, Elli’Anna Terrell, Logan Terrell, Anastasia Teet, and Jacob Teet. He was preceded in death by his grandson, Jerry Wayne Teet. He also was great-grandfather to Emma Batts, Gunner Batts, Hartley Batts, Rylan Dile, Elizabeth Dile, Kinsley Teet, Jace Teet, Isabella Teet, Landon Dile, and Tate Dile.

Funeral services will be Monday, January 6, 2025, beginning at 2:00 p.m. in the Chapel of McDonald Funeral Home with Devin Pickard officiating. Full military honors will be presented prior to the service.