of Bartlett, TN

May 18, 1914 - April 15, 2017

Willie Aticus (Bill) Claiborne, age, 102, of Bartlett, Tennessee, formerly of North Little Rock, Arkansas, died on April 15, 2017. He was predeceased by parent James Marion Claiborne and Maggie Lee Rogers, and his wife, Leoda Coleman Claiborne. He is survived by his three children and their spouses: Jerry Claiborne, Charles (Patty) Claiborne, and Karen (Russ) Porter.

Bill was very proud of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who called him Papaw. His grandchildren are: Courtney Claiborne, Adam (Rhonda) Claiborne, Amanda Claiborne, John (Danya) Claiborne, Sara (Michael) Govener, Rachel Claiborne, Kristen Jackson, and Ryan (Chelsea) Porter. His great-grandchildren are: Caleb, Hannah, Rebekah, Graham, Carley, and Logan.

Born on May 18, 1914, he grew up in White County, Arkansas, on a farm. He was the sixth of seven children. He was honorably discharged from the U.S. Navy after an injury, in 1937. He and Leoda married on New Year's Day, 1939. That was the only day they both had off from work.

Bill was a man of deep faith. He and Leoda were members of Park Hill Baptist Church, North Little Rock, Arkansas, for over 48 years. He served faithfully as a deacon and trustee for many years. The friendships they made at the church were an important part of their lives. Following their move to Bartlett, they became members of Bartlett Baptist Church, where he was a member of the Men' Sunday School class. His classmates became an integral part of his life in Bartlett.

The family is grateful for the many calls and letters from friends and family. During the last years of his life, the goal of his primary care physicians was for him to live to 100. They exceeded that goal. In addition, Memphis medical facilities and personnel that gave support to him included Memphis Jewish Home, West Cancer Clinic, and Baptist Memorial Hospital. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your church or one of these medical facilities.

The family will receive friends at Bartlett Baptist Church on Saturday, April 22, 2017, from 9:00 a.m., until service time at 10:00 a.m.. Graveside service will be held at Oak Grove Cemetery in Cabot, Arkansas at 3:00 p.m

Online guestbook at www.rollerfuneralhomes.com

Obituary Provided By:
Closed - Contact Roller-Citizens Funeral Home
201 North Pine Street
West Memphis, TN  72303
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com