Beloved Nashville Matriarch Claudine Hale Malone Dies at 96

Claudine Malone leaves behind a large family and legacy of faith and community service.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 2:18pm

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Claudine H. Malone, a longtime resident of Nashville, Tennessee, passed away on March 27, 2026 at the age of 96. Malone was a devoted member of Bellevue Baptist Church and is survived by her two daughters, several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.

Why it matters

Claudine Malone's passing marks the end of an era for a prominent Nashville family with deep roots in the local community. Her life story reflects the changing social and religious landscape of the city over the past century.

The details

Malone was born to the late Claude and Ophelia Hale and was married to her husband Omer R. Malone for 72 years until his passing. She is survived by her daughters Maurine Singleton and Sue Richardson, as well as numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.

  • Claudine Malone passed away on March 27, 2026.
  • Her funeral service will be held on April 4, 2026 at Bellevue Baptist Church in Nashville.

The players

Claudine H. Malone

A 96-year-old Nashville resident and longtime member of Bellevue Baptist Church who passed away on March 27, 2026.

Omer R. Malone

Claudine Malone's late husband, whom she was married to for 72 years.

Maurine Singleton

One of Claudine Malone's two surviving daughters.

Sue Richardson

One of Claudine Malone's two surviving daughters.

Bobby Strickland

The pastor of Bellevue Baptist Church who will be officiating Claudine Malone's funeral service.

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What they’re saying

“Claudine was a devoted member of Bellevue Baptist Church and her family will forever remember her unwavering love, her steadfast presence, her faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, and the many ways she enriched their lives.”

— Compassion Funeral & Cremation Services, Funeral Home

What’s next

Claudine Malone's funeral service will be held on April 4, 2026 at Bellevue Baptist Church in Nashville, where she was a longtime member. She will be laid to rest at Harpeth Hills Memory Gardens following the service.

The takeaway

Claudine Malone's life and legacy exemplify the enduring values of faith, family, and community that have defined Nashville for generations. Her passing marks the end of an era, but her impact will continue to be felt through the lives she touched.