Shirley Claude Chavez

Shirley Claude Chavez was born in New Orleans, LA on October 15, 1921 to the late René Claude and Mary L. Claude. Mrs. Chavez was preceded in death by her husband of 54 years, Dr. Stephen A. Chavez, former Chief of Medicine at the Biloxi VA Hospital. She was also preceded in death by five sisters, Irma C. Turan, Louise C. Turansky, Lucille C. Kramer, Inez Claude, Marion C. Deckbar, and one brother, Howard Claude. Shirley was a graduate of Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic School, and also of Joseph Maybin Commercial College, both in New Orleans, LA. She is survived by her three children: Stephanie Chavez Reinike (Vernon) of Mobile, AL, Stan Claude Chavez (Sibyl) of Covington, LA and Sharon Chavez Hampton (Gary) of McKinney, TX. Also she is survived by her five grandchildren, Shannon Chavez Lembeck, Rob Reinike, Ryan Reinike, Stephen Chavez, and Connor Hampton. Mrs. Chavez had three great-grandchildren, Robyn Reinike, Kailyn Lembeck and Jake Lembeck. A very empathetic and generous person by nature, she contributed regularly to many charities. Many years before the government free/reduced school meal program, Mrs. Chavez would often pay for the lunches of these needy children, particularly at Howard II (which Stephanie attended in 1st grade). She was an avid golfer, and long-time member of Sunkist Country Club. Bowling was also one of her passions, as well as gardening and cooking. Services will be held at Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home, Pass Road, Biloxi, MS on Wednesday, December 2, 2015 at 11:30 a.m. Visitation will be from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Burial will follow at Biloxi National Cemetery in Biloxi, MS.