Saundra Clagett

Saundra Floyd Clagett passed away at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center on Friday, September 14, 2018.

She was a wonderful, supportive wife, mother, sister and grandmother who loved her family with all her heart. She was born on July 30, 1945 in Durham, N.C.   She was preceded in death by her parents, Lewis Donald Stanley and Shirley Brown.

Saundra spent the first nine years of her life in Durham and the next nine years in Bronx, New York.  After returning to Durham, she graduated from Hillside High school in the class of 1965. In addition, she is a graduate of North Carolina Central University with a B.A. degree in Art.  She committed her life to Christ and became a dedicated member of Ebenezer Baptist Church.  While residing in Fayetteville, she joined Lewis Chapel Baptist Church.

To broaden her opportunities and serve her country, Saundra attempted to join the U.S. Army at age 33.  She was rejected initially, because she was told that she exceeded the age limit. Yet, she persisted and two months later was accepted as a recruit.  As a mother or three sons, she was tested physically and mentally during basic training.  As the oldest-and possibly the smallest- recruit, she was nicknamed Grandma by the 18 and nineteen -year -old fellow trainees.  Despite the grueling training, she succeeded and began a 16-year Army career.

Sandi was stationed in several overseas assignments that took her to Germany, Korea, Honduras, Belgium, Egypt, among others.  She served as Battalion Legal Clerk, Traffic Management Coordinator, Battalion Mail Chief, Personal Property Shipping Supervisor and Promotions Clerk.

Sandi had an infectious smile and was a very talented speaker and organizer.  She used this talent to organize Meet the Candidate forums prior to local and state elections.  As a result, she knew a great many of our local and state politicians.

Sandi was a force of nature when it came to protecting her family and promoting the causes in which she passionately believed.  After discharge, Sandi became a fierce and tireless advocate for veterans and fought to ensure that this special group received everything that they were entitled.  As a result, she joined James B. Dennis VFW post 6018 in Fayetteville, N.C.  While affiliated there, she was elected the first female commander in the history of the post.  It is the largest VFW post in the region and she held every office, supported every program and became an indispensable, vital member.  She was also elected as the Seam Squirrel (President) of the Military Order of the Cootie.  This organization supports and contributes to the care and morale of hospitalized veterans.  On the state level, she served as VFW Surgeon for 7 years, thereby holding that post longer than anyone.

Among her many civic associations, she was a member of the Cumberland County Homeless Board of Directors, The Find a friend program and The United Order of Tents.

Sandi received so many awards for her work with veterans that they are too numerous to mention. Most noteworthy were, All American Commander, District Commander, National Aide-De-Camp, State Buddy Poppy Chairman, and serving on the National Buddy Poppy Committee.

She was very proud of her award of The Order of the Long Leaf Pine, the highest award that is given by the Governor of North Carolina to outstanding citizens who have contributed significantly to the uplift of our state.

She leaves to cherish her memory her husband, Clarence E. Clagett; three sons Jacques Floyd, Kevin Quick, and Daryl Quick; Step daughters Tiffany Clagett and Courtni Clagett; sisters Marsha Mondi (Tom) and Brenda Stanley; brother Arthur Modesto; grandchildren Andre May, Tony Blow, Randy Blow, Melchizadek Muhammad, Jordyn Clagett, Camille Clagett; mother-in-law Mabel Clagett and many other loving relatives and seemingly millions of friends and acquaintances.

She was clear spoken, had a great sense of humor and was an exceptional entertainer and cook.

Yes, she was a force of nature.  So, it is not surprising that she departed this life for heaven on the same day that Hurricane Florence landed. 

We love and miss her.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Saundra Clagett, please visit our floral store.