Obituary of Claudie Mae Mills Speed

Claudie Mae Mills Speed of Fernandina Beach passed away peacefully on March 29, 2024 at the Warner Center for Caring. Claudie Mae lived her almost 94 years with great flair, a compassion for others and an ever-present sense of humor. She was born and raised in Live Oak Florida, the third and youngest daughter of Claude and Annie Mae Mills. As the youngest child, she was spoiled rotten, much to the chagrin of her sisters, Jessie Mae and Lois Mae. She attended and graduated from Suwannee High School. In 1953, she married George Bryan Henderson Speed in Jacksonville, Fl. She supported her husband while he attended UF Engineering school and earned her "PHT" - Pushing Hubby Through - from the University of Florida Dames. In the early years, they lived in Baton Rouge, LA and Pensacola, FL. raising three children. In the early 70's, George's work took them to Kentucky. In Paducah, KY., using her numerous artistic talents and her business acumen, she owned and operated two successful florist shops. After retirement, Claudie Mae and George returned to her beloved Florida where both became Master Gardeners. At the age of 73, she earned her AA degree, with high honors in Psychology from FSCJ. After the passing of her beloved husband in 2003, she began a new chapter in her life, enjoying friends, travel, volunteer work, and gardening. She was blessed to have spent many of her latter years with her special sweetheart, Larry Hall. Claudie Mae's family included children Bryan (Debbie) Speed of Van Alystne and Plano, Texas, Bruce Speed predeceased, and Maryanne Evans, Fernandina Beach, Florida, Son in law Arthur Evans (predeceased). Grandchildren Michelle Speed, Denton, Texas, Geoff (Michelle) Speed, Paducah, Kentucky, Clinton Evans, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Bayde Evans, Fernandina Beach, Florida, Cyrus (Amy) Evans, Bellefonte, Pennsylvania, Ruben Evans (predeceased) and Amber (Jimmy) DeCosmos, Bellefonte, Pennsylvania. Great grandchildren Patrick Speed, Riley McConnell, Colvin Evans, and Malcolm DeCosmos, and great great grandson, Jasper McConnell. Additionally, she was survived by numerous nieces and nephews. A private graveside remembrance will be held.