Ms. Claudia Eugene Finlayson

Claudia Eugene Finlayson earned her wings on June 29, 2023. She was born on January 23, 1920 to Rev. James Anthony Franklin Finlayson and Alba Eugene Keys Finlayson in Madison, Florida. She graduated from Jones High School in Orlando, Florida . Claudia always had a thirst for knowledge. She began her higher education by earning her Diploma from Bethune Cookman College in 1940. She then earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical College in 1942, and in 1943, she went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Library Science from North Carolina College for Negroes. For several years, Claudia taught elementary students in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. She then went on to be the founding librarian at Walker Elementary Magnet School, where she serviced for 40 years. Upon her retirement, and as the only librarian they ever had, the library was named after her. She was the first media specialist at Dillard High School until she retired in 1983. Claudia was active in the National Baptist Convention USA Inc., serving on the Finance Committee for many years. She was also active with the Florida Baptist Convention. Claudia became a member of her beloved sorority, Zeta Phi Beta, in April of 1950. Claudia's unsurpassed dedication to her family, church family, and friends was evident in everything she did. She enjoyed traveling, especially to National Baptist Conventions all over the country. She leaves to mourn: devoted brother, Dr. William E. Finlayson; devoted nieces and nephews, Vernell Raymond Roberts (Jerilyn) of Hanover, MD, William Roberts (Judy) of Washington, D.C., Emmie Denise Roberts of Washington, D.C., Sheila M. Finlayson of Annapolis, MD, Reginald Finlayson, and James A.F. (Tony) Finlayson (deceased); great nieces and nephews, William Roberts Jr. of Memphis, TN, Mekeeda Finlayson Baylis (Craig) of Inglewood, CA, Brandon Roberts (Carrie) of San Francisco, CA, Janine Cox (Qua do) of Hanover, MD, Kari Raglin (Joshua) of Montgomery Village, MD, and Celiwa Zuri Finlayson of Milwaukee, WI; great-great nieces and nephews, Christen Roberts of New York City, NY, Michael Finlayson-Jones, Emanuel Finlayson-Jones, and Nasir Finlayson-Shaw, all, of Milwaukee, WI, Jayla Cox-of Hanover, MD, and Asaiah Raglin of Montgomery Village, MD; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Ms. Claudia Eugene Finlayson

January 23, 1920 - June 29, 2023