Mathilda White Claiborne

Mathilda White Claiborne, a beloved mother, grandmother, and cherished member of her community, passed away peacefully on July 1, 2025, at the age of 98. Born on June 4, 1927, to the late Girod and Fanny Griffin in a life filled with love, resilience, and devotion. She is preceded in death by her sister Amanda Pearson (Jesse Pearson, Sr.) deceased and brother, Girod Griffin, Jr. Mathilda leaves behind a legacy of faith, respect and compassion.
"Teal" as she was called, was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Jerry White, with whom she shared 45 wonderful years of marriage. Together, they built a loving home and raised 10 children, instilling in each of them the values of family, faith, and perseverance. Her children include Jerry White, Jr. (Lorraine), Robert White, Sr. (deceased) (Jane), Mary White Cole, Donald White, Sr., Wilbert White (deceased), Fannye White Strickland (deceased), David White, Sr. (Linda), Carol White Johnson (Aaron), Lynnette White-Colin, and Michelle White-Julien (Gerard, Sr.).
Additionally, Mathilda embraced her role as a grandmother, nurturing her 32 grandchildren, 59 great grandchildren and 12 great, great grandchildren who all cherished her beyond measure. She adored them, never missing any of their milestones.
She was also preceded in death by Allen Claiborne, whom she married in 1992 and was stepmother to Cheryl Claiborne (deceased) and Allen Claiborne, Jr. (deceased)
Mathilda is survived by her aunt, Odelia Carr. She was preceded in death by her niece Linda Morgan and Juanita Pearson; She is survived by nephews Jesse Pearson, Jr., David Pearson and nieces Faye Fleming Pearson, Winnie Pearson, and a host of other cousins, great nieces and nephews.
Mathilda graduated from McDonogh 35 High School and Cohenson School of Nursing. She enjoyed a career as a licensed practical nurse and later worked as a telecommunications professional at BellSouth.
A woman of immense strength and compassion, Mathilda treasured her family above everything else. Her steadfast dedication to her family, and her unwavering faith were hallmarks of her life. She attended the International Church of God. Those who knew her will remember her gentle smile, her kind words and ever encouraging support. She was often described as the nicest person you'll ever meet.
She was a seamstress and a voracious reader; she loved gardening and was an outstanding cook! She prepared amazing meals for every family celebration, which brought warmth to her heart and happiness to the family's appetites. Her family and friends loved to see her dance, which she continued to do until the end.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Mathilda's life on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at Rhodes Funeral Home, 3933 Washington Avenue; New Orleans, LA 70125. A viewing will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. with a home going celebration to follow at 9:30 a.m. Interment at Providence Memorial Park Cemetery, 8200 Airline Drive; Metairie, LA 70003. Repast immediately following in the Lake Room at NOLA Skylight, 10001 Read Blvd; Suite 1100, New Orleans, LA 70127. Please visit https://premiermemories.net/users/MTY1OTA3LU1hdGhpbGRhIEdyaWZmaW4=/home.html to sign the online guestbook, share memories and condolences with the family.
Mathilda's passing marks the end of an era, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of her children, grandchildren and the countless lives she touched.
Arrangements entrusted to D.W. Rhodes Funeral Home, 3933 Washington Ave., New Orleans, LA (504) 822-7162 www.rhodesfuneral.com.