Claude Upchurch III

Mr. Claude Upchurch, III, age 68 of 1925 Carr Creek Drive, Sanford, NC passed on Saturday, October 12, 2019 at Central Carolina Hospital, Sanford,NC.

Mr. Claude Upchurch III was born September 16, 1951 to Claude Upchurch Jr. and Lillie B. Upchurch.

He graduated from W.B. Wicker High School in 1969 and attended two years at A&T State University in Greensboro, NC. Claude worked for Heins Telephone (Alltel) where he became a telephone repairman until he retired. Claude loved attending church whenever he could.

He was all about family and he looked forward to grilling at Tony’s. Claude was a point-blank person and to the point about things. His smile was one in a million and if he could lend a helping hand, he would when and wherever he was needed.

Claude’s task in Sanford was fulfilled on October 12, 2019 when things took a turn around. His last goodbyes were said with a wave from the EMS ambulance. “We needed him here, but God needed him to fulfill a task that He had in store for him”. Although very unexpected, God’s will was done. He was all  about family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Claude Upchurch Sr. and Bethina Upchurch and Alonzo and Beulah M. Brown; brother, Robert Mitchell Upchurch and father, Claude Upchurch Jr.

His love for his family will be remembered by his legacy:  wife of 42 years, Carolyn M. Upchurch; son, Christopher M. Upchurch (Takia); two daughters, Cheriss U. Williams (Derrick) and Sondra Durham all of Sanford, NC; grand-children, Patrina Bethea of Missouri, Karma and De’Lontae Williams, Shieena, Chy’Trice, Shaddius, Chrishod and Christian Upchurch, Jaime Stackermann, Le’lani and Nolan Durham; three great-grandchildren, A’lajah, Shaddius Jr., both of Sanford, NC, Josiah Miles of Missouri; mother, Lillie B. Upchurch; sister, Joyce U. Johnson; brothers, David (Sharon) and Anthony (Jennell); uncle, Jason Upchurch; two aunts, Clara Clegg and Rebecca Upchurch; brother in law, John Maxwell (Ruby); two sisters in law, Ada M. Johnson (Randy) of Raleigh, NC and Pamela Hooker (Don) of Sanford, NC; a  special friend, Walt and host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

The family will receive friends at the Carr Creek address and also at the home of his daughter, 4930 Colon Road, Sanford, NC

Arrangements by: Knotts Funeral Home - Sanford, NC