Claude Dean Fly

FLY, Claude Dean, born December 18, 1930, passed away January 1, 2012. Claude passed peacefully at home on January 1, 2012 surrounded by his family who loved and adored him. He is preceded in death by his father and mother Leslie and Beulah Fly and his brother John L. Fly. He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years Patsy Redd Fly, 3 sons and 1 daughter, Bruce L. Fly, Dr. Barry L. (Bonnie) Fly, Dr. Brad L. (Rebecca) Fly, Bridgette L. (Jamie) Pride. He is also survived by 8 grandchildren, Blake (Stacey) Turner, Chesnee Fly, Chelsee (Rob) Winkelmann, Jessica Fly, Taylor Fly, Jordan Fly, Jacie Pride, Aaron Fly and one great grandchild Avery Turner. He is also survived by his brothers and sisters Ruth Moore, Laura Mae (Paul) Williams, Marvin (Marilyn) Fly, Joe Fly as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

He was a graduate of Central High School, Nashville TN class of 1949. From a very young age Claude was respected and revered. The caption under his senior yearbook picture stated: “His Mind is Wisdom, His word is Law”, which was an accurate reflection of his character.

In their young adult years he and his wife Patsy were members of a competitive square dance team which performed on the Grand Ole Opry.

Claude proudly served his country as a member of the US Air Force for 4 years. After leaving the service he was a journeyman electrician and member of the IBEW Local 429 until he retired. He was a passionate advocate for youth baseball, coaching for 36 years in several local organizations in the Nashville area taking several teams to the Dixie Youth World Series. He was a lifelong member of Liberty United Methodist Church having served as a deacon. Claude was also a lifelong avid Tennessee Vols Fan.

Those fortunate to have known Claude will hold special memories to comfort them in this time of loss. Claude’s life was a shining example and inspiration to all who knew him. He will truly be missed by everyone.

A great man has left this earth and his children and grandchildren will be eternally grateful for the life he led and the example he provided. Our heavenly Father blessed us with an earthly father who truly lived a life of humility and compassion. His generosity of spirit, time and love were given freely and unconditionally, benefiting all those who asked or were in need. We, his children and grandchildren will strive to follow his life’s example in honor of his memory knowing we will fall short of such a wonderful man.

Visitation will be held from 4PM until 7:30PM on Tuesday, the 3rd of January at Brentwood Roesch-Patton Funeral Home. The Celebration of Life Service will be held at 1PM on Wednesday, the 4th of January in the chapel at Brentwood Roesch-Patton Funeral Home with visitation held from 10:30AM until 12:30PM. Entombment to follow at Woodlawn Memorial Park. Active Pallbearers are Blake Turner, Taylor Fly, Jordan Fly, Aaron Fly, Craig McElhaney and John Nix.