Claude Shell was born on January 5, 1928, to the late Ida Mae Lark and Charles Shell in Greenville, South Carolina. He was the youngest of three children born to this family. His siblings, one sister and one brother both preceded him in death. "Shell" as he was affectionately called, received his early education in the Public Schools of Greenville, SC. Shell accepted Christ at an early age and also attended the Catholic church. On August 30, 1994 in Greenville, SC, Claude Shell married the love of his life Elaine. They were a happy couple and quickly became "best friends forever" during their courtship and throughout their marriage. Shell and Elaine had a deep and abiding love. Even during his illness, Shell often only wanted the comfort of his best friend Elaine and she never left his side. He loved her more than anything in this world and she loved him with an identical love. Shell was a very hard worker. He was employed as a Long Shoreman achieving the rank of Foreman while working for the Steamship Trade and International Long Shoreman Company Association, Baltimore,^MD. Shell began working for this company in 1946, and continued his tenure of dedicated work until his Health prevented him from doing so in 2012. Shell would rarely miss time from work and always made sure that his work was accomplished 100%. He was a strong man and a strong leader. He was well respected by his supervisors, peers, and other co-workers. Anyone who knew Shell knew that he was exciting to be around! He would always keep people laughing because he would quickly let loose with his keen sense of humor. Along with his humor, Shell was known for not biting his tongue! He said what he meant and meant what he said! This love for life and for others made him one of the most generous persons known in the area. He was very kind hearted to his family and friends and readily helped anyone he could. Shell loved to care for Elaine and loved to provide her with anything that he knew would make her life more pleasant. Shell was known for his yard working abilities. He prided himself in making his yard have that "well-manicured" look. He would make his yard the envy of the neighborhood. In addition, he loved putting things together. Also, he was an avid exerciser and stayed in great physical shape as he enjoyed working out. He kept his regiment going until his health prevented it. His routines included regular exercise and lifting weights. Shell was an avid vehicle lover, especially new Cadillacs. He always purchased a new Cadillac every 2-3 years and always would sport Elaine about town in them. He ensured they all had the latest "bells and whistles " and had stunning visual appeal. On Saturday, August 31, 2013, Claude Shell passed from this life while at his home. He expired after a long illness that he fought gallantly until the end. He is survived by: his devoted and loving wife, Elaine Shell; daughter, Claudette Shell-Campbell (Reginald) of Baltimore, MD; two sons, Donald Robinson (Delphine) of Virginia Beach, VA and Claude Shell, Jr. of Baltimore, MD; four grandchildren; three great grandchildren; two brothers -in-law, Wayne Holland of Severna Park, MD and Larry Williams (Beltina) of Glen Burnie, MD and a host of other relatives and friends. Viewing Joseph H. Brown Jr. Funeral Home Sunday, September 08, 2013 01:00 PM - 05:00 PM Email Details 2140 N. Fulton Ave
Baltimore, Maryland 21217 Directions Funeral Service Joseph H. Brown Jr. Funeral Home Monday, September 09, 2013 10:00 AM Email Details 2140 N Fulton Ave
Baltimore, Maryland 21217 Funeral to begin @ 10:30 am Directions