Claudia Mae Thomas 87 passed away peacefully on April 21, 2026, at her home. Claudia was born on May 14, 1938, to William and Lillian Slater, and though her journey began in Toomsuba Mississippi, she spent the majority of her life as a proud resident of Akron, Ohio.

Claudia’s remarkable life was filled with purpose and accomplishment. A graduate of East High School, she continued her education at Hammel Actual College, earning her credentials as a private and professional secretary on June 10, 1972. She dedicated 39 years of her career to Babcock and Wilcox as a Professional Secretary, where she retired and was respected and admired for her professionalism and commitment.

Claudia’s heart belonged to her family and community. She shared over four decades of love and partnership with her soulmate, Milton Cole, creating a home filled with warmth, laughter, and unforgettable memories. She was a faithful member of Phillips Chapel CME, actively serving as a Steward and Missionary, and took great pride in her role on the Mother Board, where she offered mentorship, guidance, and prayer to many.

Giving back was a way of life for Claudia. She generously volunteered with the March of Dimes and numerous other organizations, finding joy in supporting others and giving back to her community. Her excitement for life was evident in her hobbies—she enjoyed writing poems, bowling, and had a secret passion for playing the guitar. Claudia’s home was a place of celebration, where she loved being surrounded by family and friends, hosting countless gatherings that brought everyone together.

Claudia is survived by her five children: James (Trashawn) Thomas of Texas, Daryl Thomas of Hawaii, Diana Thomas (Eric Jones) of Akron, Bruce (Farrah) Thomas of California, and Adrianna (Jason) Farrey of Akron, as well as her two bonus children, Steve and Lisa Cole of Akron. She leaves behind 19 grandchildren; Maurice, Kayla, Jalen, Jayla, of Texas, Rochelle (Phillip), Darelle, of Akron, Chloe of California, Timmesha (Leonard), Timothy Jr, Texas, Dominique(Vicente)Texas, Brittney (Richie) Las Vegas, Byanka (Summer), Zamir, Persia, California, Latesha, Lakesha, Darshawn, Rayshawn (Tomisha) Armani, Akron, a host of great grandchildren and great- great grandchildren; special aunt Rachel Hamilton and sisters Shirley Johnson (Al Kerney), Carla (Andre) Bradford, Annette Slater; stepsisters, Priscilla (Nate) Williams, and Ella Rushin; brothers, William Slater, Dwight Slater, and stepbrother Herbert (Vanessa) Williams; special niece, Sheila (Kelvin)Lawrence; nephews, Antwon (Stephanie) Johnson, and Shawn (Laquita) Johnson and a host of extended family and friends who cherished her deeply.

She was preceded in death by her loving partner Milton Cole, her parents William and Lillian Slater, her stepmother Johnnie Slater, her daughter Lillian Thomas, her sister Leola Felton, and her stepbrothers; Albert, Eligh (Goldie) and Roland Williams, her grandsons Joseph Thomas, Jason Farrey Jr., and nephews Lamar Johnson, and Steve Felton.

Claudia, lovingly known as “Moma,” touched every life she encountered with her boundless compassion and infectious smile. She made everyone feel welcome, and her legacy of love and kindness will continue to inspire us all. It is an honor to celebrate her life and share the precious memories we hold of our beloved mother. She will be missed more than words can express, but we know her spirit lives on in every one of us.

We love you dearly, Moma, and will carry your love and wisdom in our hearts forever. You showed us that life is what you make it—and you made it truly beautiful.

With love and remembrance