Claude Raymond Nicholson

Mr. Claude Raymond Nicholson, age 65, of Hayesville, NC passed away on Sunday, August 19, 2012 following a period of declining health. He was born to Gerald and Wanda Ross Nicholson on November 23, 1946 in Hiawassee, GA. He is preceded in death by his father Gerald Nicholson and his wife Laura Randall Nicholson. He is survived by his mother, Wanda Nicholson, of Hiawassee, GA; brothers, Rodney Nicholson, of Hiawassee, GA and Glenn Nicholson, of Hayesville, NC; He had five children, a number of grandchildren and a number of nieces and nephews also survive. Claude served in the Navy from 1964 to 1965. He worked for the Clayton County, GA Sheriffs Office, and while employed there he started and was head of their SWAT and was also assigned to their fugitive squad. After retiring and moving back to Towns County, he worked for the Towns County Detention Center but was forced back into retirement due to health reasons. He was also a member of the local VFW and was of the Baptist faith. He deeply loved God, his Country, his Family, all people and animals and his flag always had to be visible. Funeral Services were held on Wednesday, August 22, 2012 at 1:00 PM from the Mt. Zion Baptist Church with Rev. Anthony Dye officiating. Interment was in the Burch Cemetery. Music was provided by, Shirley Karlsson and Barbara Oakes. Pallbearers were, Jesse, Patrick, and Kurt Nicholson, Perry Lunsford, Jay Snieder and Ed Williams. Banister Funeral Home of Hiawassee in charge of arrangements.