Claude LeMasters, 94, of Beaumont died October 30, 2008 at Christus Hospital St. Mary. A native of Shelby County, Indiana, and resident of Beaumont since 1952, he was the son of Ralph and Ophelia LeMasters. Claude grew up on a farm, graduated from Shelbyville High School in Indiana and in 1938 graduated from Purdue University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Forestry and a commission as a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Army. He served as an artillery officer during World War II, earning a Bronze Star. After World War II, he remained in the Army Reserves and retired in 1968 with the rank of Colonel.
Prior to his active military service, he worked as a Forester in the Northwest and then served as an officer in the Civilian Conservation Corps. He received his teaching certificate from Lamar University and taught chemistry and biology at French High School until becoming assistant principal. Claude received his master’s degree in Biology from Peabody/ Vanderbilt University.
He is survived by his wife, Joy C. LeMasters of Beaumont; sons, Claude Richard LeMasters and his wife Candace of Beaumont and Philip LeMasters and his wife Paige of Abilene; sister, Eleanor Jean Pigman and her husband Stuart; and six grandchildren, Ian LeMasters, Kate LeMasters, Mary Margaret LeMasters, Patrick LeMasters, Will LeMasters, and Anne LeMasters.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Art, Lawrence, and Carroll; sisters, Lucille and Marjorie; and his first wife, Eleanor K. LeMasters.
Memorial service will be 11:00 a.m. Monday, November 3, 2008 at Woodland Baptist Church under the direction of Broussard’s, 2000 McFaddin, Beaumont. A gathering of family and friends will be Sunday evening, November 2, 2008 from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the mortuary.
Memorial contributions may be made to Woodland Baptist Church, 1860 W Lucas, Beaumont, Texas 77706 or Some Other Place, P O Box 843, Beaumont, Texas 77704.
