Claudette Kneece Staggs, 88, of Greenville died Saturday, January 3, 2026 at TerraBella Summit in Greenville.  Claudette was born in Fort Lawn, S.C. on February 26, 1937, she was the only child of parents Verne Kneece and Mildred J. Kneece of Newberry. Her father, Verne was the superintendent of Newberry schools and Mildred taught English at Newberry High School.

Claudette attended both Furman University and Newberry College. Upon graduating from college, she taught school in Baltimore, MD for 4 years as a young married woman. She later went on to work in professional offices in Easley and Greenville.

Claudette is survived by her son, Robert (Robbie) Samuel Boland; and 3 granddaughters, Parker, Reagan, and Brayden Boland.

While her son was growing up in the family home, Claudette always welcomed visits from his friends. She said they enjoyed visiting because there was always plenty of good food to eat. It was not unusual for Claudette to wake up the next day and find her son's friends sleeping on the floor.

She was an avid lover of animals and would feed any stray who came into her yard. She had many pet cats and dogs over the years. Her last pet was her beloved chihuahua Macey. Macey was Claudette's constant companion during Claudette's final years.

Claudette loved to dance (shag & waltz) and enjoyed playing bridge. She enjoyed entertaining friends at her home when her health allowed it.

Her friends were always welcome to her home for a chat and a cup of coffee. She was a good listener anytime her friends had a problem or something on their minds.

She loved Clemson football and attended some games when she was younger but mostly watched the games on TV with friends.

Claudette had strong faith in God and prayer was an important part of her daily life. She was a member of Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd in Greenville.

A graveside service will be held at 2pm on Friday, January 16th, 2026 at Rosemont Cemetery.

Whitaker Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Claudette Staggs.