Lou Claxton

Lou Claxton, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, twin sister and friend, passed away peacefully on February 27, 2025, at the age of 78. Born on October 23, 1946, Lou dedicated her life to nurturing others, particularly through her work as a houseparent in various children's homes. Her heart was as expansive as her commitment to caring for children, and she contributed positively to the lives of hundreds throughout her impactful career. Lou's life was full of love, laughter, and cherished family moments. She was known by many names-Mom, Mrs. C., Mama Lou and MeMaw. She had an infectious spirit that brightened the lives of those around her. Her passions extended beyond her work; she found joy in simple pleasures like arts and crafts, spending time with her family, playing cards, and watching movies. Christmas held a special place in her heart as she enjoyed decorating the tree and wrapping the gifts that she had bought for her loved ones. Lou had a special talent for bringing people together. She was a devoted Bible school teacher for 40 years, always with a joyful smile. She was a proud Girl Scout leader and Sunshine School teacher. She organized countless activities for the children she cared for, always aiming to make their experiences memorable. Her compassion and dedication shone through in everything she did, especially while looking over her "Lou's Lassies and Lads", a daycare she ran out of her own home. In addition to her caring for others, she enjoyed listening to music; her favorite being anything from Neil Diamond. She often got a kick out of putting on her own karaoke shows, with her kids as her audience. She relished her favorite snacks-a Dr. Pepper and a Butterfinger or a frozen Snickers-while settling in for a movie night. Lou is survived by her loving husband, Michael Claxton; her daughters, Melissa Parks and her husband Randall, Melanie Kennedy and her husband David; her son, Mickey Claxton, and his wife, Alecia; her loved twin sister Sue Bogard, her most fierce card playing adversary whom she shared an unbreakable bond with, her brother Jim Hodges; her cherished grandchildren, Austin Parks and wife Courtney, Meranda Henry and husband Chris, Dalton Kennedy, and Evelyn Claxton; great-grandchildren Rhett, Bodhi, Aurora, Aspen, Alice, Lilly, and Julia; as well as several adored nieces and nephews. Lou was preceded in death by her parents Herbert Hodges, Evelyn Hodges. A memorial service celebrating her vibrant life will be held on March 3, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Greenlawn Church of Christ. Friends and family are invited to come together to honor and celebrate Lou Claxton's remarkable legacy of love, care, and unwavering faith. The family ask that you wear colorful clothing as a celebration of her life if attending. Lou's spirit will continue to live on in the countless lives she touched and the love she shared with her family and friends. Her memory will forever be cherished, and her heartwarming legacy will carry on through all who knew her. "Grief is only love that's got no place to go" - Stephen Wilson Jr.

Lou Claxton

October 23, 1946 - February 27, 2025