Obituary

Ernest Claude Bush
February 17, 1929 - August 27, 2019



A lifelong resident of Bogalusa, Ernest Claude Bush was born February 17, 1929. At the age of 90 years, Claude peacefully left this world on August 27, 2019 at the home of his granddaughter Tera Bush Holmes.

Claude was married to the love of his life Floy Dell Stafford in 1950. They celebrated 55 years of marriage before her death in 2005. In 2007 he married Susan Batton Sumrall. She was his loving companion until her death in 2017.

He is survived by one son, Greg (Delaine) and granddaughter Tera Bush (Brent) Holmes, and great grandson Brady. Claude is also survived by his only remaining sibling, Newell Bush and sister-in-law Mary Bush Meighen, sister-in-law Brenda (Charles) Peterman, sister-in-law Joy Stafford plus many nieces and nephews.

Claude lost his 14 year old daughter, Claudia Dell in 1966. Six brothers Alfred “Shorty”, A. C. Jr., Clarence, Cecil, infant brothers Lional Lloyd, Arthur Joseph and his only sister Alma Bush Pittman predeceased him. He was the son of Alban C. Bush, Sr. and Lonie Thornhill Bush.

Claude worked at the Bogalusa Paper Mill as a pipe-fitter for 38 years until his retirement in 1994. During that time he served as union shop steward and later as President of Local 189 of the United Paperworkers International Union. Claude also served on the board of Zellco from 1974 to 2016. For a number of years he held the position of President.

After his retirement he became the court bailiff at the Washington Parish Court in Franklinton, Louisiana, a position he enjoyed and at which he was well respected.

Traveling the country was one of his favorite pastimes. He toured 47 of the 50 states. Of all the places he visited, he would frequently return to the beautiful Great Smoky Mountains.

Claude will be greatly missed by many who loved him.

Poole-Ritchie Funeral Home is handling the arrangements which are incomplete at this time.