Claudia Marie Cason

Claudia Marie Snowden Cason, affectionately known as “Chum” earned her eternal resting place on Monday, September 6, 2021. Born on December 23, 1931 in Creswell Washington County, NC to the late Levin and Hannah Snowden, Claudia was one of 13 children.  She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband of 59 years—Rev. Dr. Harold Cason Sr, 11 siblings; her only daughter, Barbara Anne Cason-Dildy; and two great-grandchildren, Anthony Cheresonowski and Renee Roberson.

Claudia received her formal education from Princess Anne County Training School. In her adulthood, she was employed as a Food Service Professional with the Virginia Beach Public School system. She was dedicated and committed to her profession until her retirement with more than 30 years of service.

Upon accepting Christ into her life at an early age, Claudia became a member of Mt. Zion AME Church, Virginia Beach. She joyfully served on the Beautification Women’s Club.

After uniting in holy matrimony with the late Rev. Dr. Harold Cason, Sr, Claudia joined her husband at Mount Bethel Baptist Church, Virginia Beach. While there, Claudia was an active member of the Pastor’s Aid Ministry. In 1978, Claudia accompanied her husband to First Baptist Church Campostella, Norfolk as he began his tenure as Senior Pastor. Claudia took her role as a First Lady very seriously. She charted her own path and was strategic as to where she lent her time and talents.

For 89 years, the Lord ordered Claudia’s steps. He gave her the strength and wisdom to nurture and raise four generations of children. She was a faithful servant who possessed a rare sense of wit. She was a splendid cook who took great pride in providing delicious meals for her church, her family and her friends. Claudia adored beautiful flowers. She would often remind family and friends to “Give me my flowers while I’m still living because I can’t enjoy them when I’m gone.”

Left to cherish Claudia’s memory are: two loving sisters: Rosa Mae Snowden (Virginia Beach) and Gladys Johnson (Virginia Beach); four sons: Harold Cason Jr. (Patricia), Anthony Cason (Wanda), Benjamin Cason (Barbara), Bruce Cason; five bonus children whom she nurtured including: Claudette Vinson (Ronnie), Rose Corprew (Charles); Reginald Dildy; Gregory Jones and Tyasia Cason; 20 grandchildren and one very special best friend, Ella Holley along with a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Claudia Marie Snowden Cason was many things to many people, but the one thing that she was to everyone… was loved!!