In Memory: Claude Fernandez, 80, Decorated Military Veteran

The following obituary was submitted by Owen Funeral Home:

Brigadier General Claude E. Fernandez, Jr., 80, of Cartersville, passed away suddenly, Tuesday, March 24, 2015.

He was born February 22, 1935, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, the son of the late, Claude E. Fernandez, Sr., and Camille (David) Fernandez.

He is survived by his wife, Anna L. (Rhodes) Fernandez of Cartersville; a sister, Vickie Shaffer and her husband J. Edgar of Monterville, West Virginia; a brother in law, Frank Rhodes and his wife, Beverly of Lawrenceville; and a number of nieces and nephews and great-nieces and great nephews.

Upon completion of the United States Military Academy curriculum, he was commissioned as Second Lieutenant of Infantry and awarded a bachelor of science degree. He held a master of arts degree in personnel management and administration from Central Michigan University.

Awards and decorations which General Fernandez has received include the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal (w/OLC), Combat Infantry Badge, Expert Infantry Badge, Parachute Badge, Ranger Tab and Army General Staff Identification Badge.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, April 1, 2015, at 11 a.m. at Sam Jones United Methodist Church with Rev. Kevin Lobello and Rev. Nena Jones officiating.

Burial will follow at 1 p.m. at the Georgia National Cemetery in Canton with full military honors.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Sam Jones United Methodist Church, 100 West Church Street, Cartersville, Georgia, 30120; Etowah Valley Humane Society, 36 Ladds Mountain Rd. SW, Cartersville, Georgia 30120; or Fisher House Foundation, 111 Rockville Pike, Suite 420, Rockville, MD 20650 (888-294-8562).

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