Mrs. Claudette Stiltner McDonald

Mrs. Claudette Stiltner McDonald passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at the residence of her daughter in Williamson, Georgia. Her family is comforted by the fact she had already arranged for an extended warranty with her Lord and Savior, and they rejoice in knowing they will see her again one day. She was 89 years old.

Claudette was born a coal miners daughter on a cold December 14, 1935, in Oakwood, Virginia, having been pushed out into the world by her twin sister Jeanette who obviously got tired of waiting. Upon hearing that she was having twins and to keep pushing, her mother was said to have exclaimed – “but I only wanted one!” Their mother, after learning she was having twins, was now faced with having to quickly decide on two names, and so Claudette and Jeanette were chosen. “Twin” as they were both affectionately known, lost their father at an early age but grew up with all the love of their extended family.

She enjoyed playing basketball and was a graduate of Garden High School in Oakwood, Virginia, where she proudly held the title of class salutatorian. Claudette continued her education at Montreat College, earning a degree in business. Claudette was a devoted professional who dedicated her career to serving others. Alongside her twin sister, she began her journey as a secretary for the Board of Women's Work in Atlanta before transitioning to a role that would span over three decades as a medical transcriptionist at Grady Memorial Hospital.

While she was working in Atlanta for the Board of Women’s Work, she would go on a blind date which would fatefully change her life. She would meet her future husband, Jerry, who he would often call her his, “up-the holler sweetheart.” Two little girls resulted from this union, and after moving across country several times for his job, they ended up in Jonesboro, Georgia, where they would rear their girls. Following their retirement, they would move to Jerry’s hometown of Thomaston, Georgia, where they would spend their remaining years together and enjoying the company of family.

Claudette was a kind and welcoming individual, known for her warm spirit, compassion, and patience. She was an active member of Silvertown Baptist Church, where she contributed her time and energy to the Soup Kitchen Ministry, occasionally delighting volunteers and patrons by preparing Jerry's famous Brunswick stew. Her culinary skills were only matched by her talents as a seamstress, a hobby she embraced with passion.

Claudette is survived by her two daughters, Ellen (Keith) Brewer of Williamson and Anna Mitchusson of Senoia. She is also remembered fondly by her twin sister, Jeanette Johnson of Statham; her sister, Becky Hill of Houston, Texas; seven grandchildren: Sarah Moore, Jake Brewer, Rachel Wrenn, Jesse Brewer, Margaret McVey, Ivan Segovia, and David Mitchusson; as well as fifteen great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 64 years, Jerry Michael McDonald, along with her parents, Shade Elbert Stiltner and Edna Sarah Looney Stiltner Allen; her sister, Cris Matney; and her brother, Joe Allen.

A funeral service for Claudette will be held on Saturday, July 12, at 11:00 AM, at Fletcher-Day Funeral Home. The family will receive friends from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, on Saturday at the funeral home. A private interment will be held at Crystal Hill Cemetery.

Claudette Stiltner McDonald leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and devotion for her family. She was variously known as Claude, Claudie, Twin, Mama, Grandmama, and Granny. She loved and trusted her Lord and Savior, doted on her family, and definitely enjoyed chocolate. She will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

We love and miss you, Mom!

Fletcher-Day Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements. Condolences and remembrances may be expressed at www.fletcherdayfuneralhome.com.