I first got acquainted with Claudett in 1969 when our family moved from Almondbury to Dalton. Our friendship continued from the junior school to secondary high school, college and throughout adulthood.
There were four of us girls, Claudette, Elaine, Delrene and I who hung out during our school and college days and we always visited each others houses and did things together outside of school. I believe the fact that our parents were well acquainted with each other and our Jamaican cultural heritage helped in bonding our solid friendship.
We were all on the same school sport teams playing netball, basketball, rounders, hockey and field events such as running and hurdling for our school. Claudette’s athletic prowess was truly remarkable and she held the school records for the fastest female runner in both the 100 and 200 metre races. She was very popular in school but chose to hang out with us.
After college our paths separated, I moved to Harrogate and then to Germany, Claudette and Delrene moved to Aylesbury and Elaine moved to Manchester but our friendship was resilient and we occasionally reunited in Huddersfield.
Claudette eventually moved back to Huddersfield and would visit my mother on many occasions before she passed in September 2023.
In 2020, all four of us had planned to enjoy a Wellness weekend together but due to the pandemic restrictions we had to cancel our plans and never got around to rescheduling it.
Claudette, you are greatly missed but we know you are now safe and well
In paradise enjoying abundant life with Jesus Christ evermore to dwell
In a place where there’s no more debilitating suffering and pain
In the presence of our heavenly Father where everlasting peace and joy reigns
Amen!
In friendship forever Sharon, Elaine and Delrene
Sharon Henningham
20/06/2024
