Birth Date: 01/26/1977
Deceased Date: 06/05/2025
Claude Brian Stancil, affectionately known as Sukie, was born on January 26, 1977, at Johnston Memorial Hospital in Smithfield, North Carolina, to the late Edith Johnson Holder and Charles E. Branch Jr. He was a graduate of Deep Creek High School in Chesapeake, Virginia.
Claude was a cherished individual, known for his vibrant personality and the joy he brought to those around him. He had a passion for driving and enjoyed engaging conversations with family and friends. Cooking was another one of his loves, particularly hosting cookouts where he would showcase his skills on the grill. Among his favorite dishes was a sweet potato pudding reminiscent of the one his mother used to prepare. In the later years of his life, he found great pleasure in speaking with loved ones over the phone, a source of connection that will be fondly remembered.
On June 5, 2025, Claude entered eternal rest in Virginia Beach, Virginia. He leaves behind a legacy of love, fond memories, and cherished relationships that will forever be held close in the hearts of his family and friends.
Claude’s memory will be lovingly preserved by his son, Anthony Stancil, of Virginia Beach, and his three daughters, Cecelia, Lucy, and Miracle, all from North Carolina. He is survived by four brothers: William Roger Johnson of Zebulon, NC, Maurice Stancil of Smithfield, NC, and Brad Elliot Stancil, as well as Charles Edward Branch, who predeceased him. His three sisters include Marriette A. Stancil of Raleigh, NC, Shonda Covington (Dante) of Smithfield, NC, and Tawanda Johnson (Mark) of Kenly, NC.
Claude also had a loving foster family that included Darnell Dorsey and Cynthia Washington, along with two foster sisters, Tamika Mosley of Virginia and Tiara Dorsey of Virginia, who cared for him diligently. Furthermore, he shared a special bond with his foster brother, James Gloden of Virginia.
He is fondly remembered by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, and friends, as well as three cousins who were especially close to him: Albert Whitfield of Stantonsburg, NC, Rodrick Whitfield of Black Creek, Wilson, NC, and Shawn Johnson of Virginia.
Claude Brian Stancil will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in peace.
Funeral Service
Sat, June 14, 2025
2:00 pm
Sanders Funeral Home Chapel
806 E Market St,
Smithfield, NC 27577
Please visit www.rlsandersfuneralhome.org to leave your online condolences.
