* Beloved Mother, Mother-in-law, Grandmother, Great Grandmother, Aunt, Sister , Sister-in -Law and Friend

* Full of Joy and laughter 

* Never met a stranger

* Always helping everyone in anyway she could

* She loved God and she loved People

Claudia Ruth Hunt Gilliam was born on May 27, 1947, in Lineville, Alabama, to the late Effie D. and Claude “Bo” Hunt. On April 27, 2025, Claudia peacefully departed this earthly life, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and service.

Claudia grew up beneath the sun-drenched skies of Alabama, where the red clay roads and tall pines formed the backdrop of her earliest memories. She accepted Christ and was baptized at a young age, a spiritual foundation that remained central to her life. Quietly curious and reflective in her youth, Claudia found joy in learning and began to shape her identity with a blend of Southern grace and adventurous spirit.

Her journey took her to Florida, where she embraced independence and began to uncover the woman she was becoming. In 1972, she made her home in Lake Charles, Louisiana, a move that felt like a divine purpose. There, she built a life filled with purpose, community, and enduring love. She became a member of Mount Calvary Baptist Church in 1992 under the leadership of Pastor Elmore Garner.

Claudia dedicated over 35 years of service to Lake Charles Memorial Hospital as a Dietary Aide. Her warmth and unwavering work ethic touched the lives of countless patients and colleagues. She was known not only for her dedication but also for her contagious laughter, generous heart, and deep-rooted kindness. Claudia never met a stranger. Her door and her heart were always open, and she helped everyone in any way she could.

A devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, sister, and friend, Claudia was the heart of her family. She loved God and she loved people—simple truths that guided everything she did. Whether she was cheering on her beloved Golden State Warriors or dominating at Bean Bag Toss at the Senior Center, Claudia brought a radiant joy to every moment. Her favorite phrase, “Eat It or Leave It,” was as much a motto as it was a playful reminder of her strong spirit.

Claudia was preceded in death by her brothers, Bobby Allen and Paul Hunt, and her sisters, Catherine Cunningham and Myra James.

She leaves to cherish her memory two sons, Frank Levine (Bridget) of Houston, Texas, and Jamaal Levine (Tacora) of Lake Charles, Louisiana; two daughters, Kawanda Merritt (Billy) of Dallas, Texas, and Rhonda Bilbo (Kevin) of Lake Charles, Louisiana; two brothers, Billy Hardy (Ada) of Anniston, Alabama, and John Hunt of Panama City, Florida; three sisters, Nellarine Jones, Gloria Keith, and Shirley Keys (Tom), all of Panama City, Florida; six grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.

She also leaves behind her three phenomenal lifelong friends—Dolly White, Angie Celestine, and Joyce Simon—along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended relatives, and dear friends, all of whom were touched by her light.

Claudia Ruth Hunt Gilliam lived a life of faith, service, and unconditional love. Though her voice may be silent, her spirit echoes through those who knew her, and her legacy will live on for generations to come.