Claudia May Cola

Claudia May Cola, 79, of Dover, DE, passed away peacefully at home on January 31, 2026.

She was born in Wilmington, DE on November 21,1946, to the late Edward C. and Judith B. May.

Claudia graduated from Mount Pleasant High School in Wilmington, DE in 1964. She graduated with an associate degree from Goldey-Beacom in 1968. She then moved to Dover with her husband, Ray, where they started a family. She worked most of her life, including many years at Delaware Technical and Community College and the Department of Education.

Everyone would agree, Claudia was full of personality. She was a thoughtful and smart listener and observer who shared her insights and values. She truly paid attention to the world around her.

Claudia was a hardworking, engaged and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, friend and colleague. Claudia had a real competitive edge that she passed on to her children. She loved playing games with family and friends, going to a big music show, and cheering on sports. Claudia also loved travel. She was always amazed by the natural world. If it was a sunset, leaves in the fall, birds on the feeder, flowers in the yard, or following the adventures of her family and friends, she fully appreciated life.

She is preceded in death by her loving husband of over 47 years, Raymond Cola of Dover. She is survived by their daughter Kimberly May Brown (Scott) of Wendell, NC and their son David Raymond Cola (Abigail) of Christchurch, VA and their grandchildren Morgan May Birkedal (Nathan), Nicolas Scott Brown (Allison), Teal Bishop Cola, and Wade Kingfisher Cola; and one sister, Heather May.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 631 S. State Street Dover, DE.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to DE Hospice at 555 E. Loockerman St., Suite 200, Dover, DE 19901.