Claude Swanson Finney

It has been just over two years since Claude gave his induction speech at the Davidson College Athletic Hall of Fame-- a moment he cherished deeply. That day he held "court" in front of an audience, most of whom he had never met. With humor, warmth, and faith-filled wisdom, Claude captivated the room and left all in attendance with a lasting memory of the qualities that defined his life.

Claude Swanson Finney Jr., 86, of Spartanburg, South Carolina, passed away on September 12, 2025. Born on December 31, 1939, he lived a life marked by service, faith, devotion to family, and an enduring love of friends, country, and the outdoors. Claude's childhood was spent in Spartanburg, where he attended Pine Street Elementary and Evans Junior High. He later attended Christ Episcopal School in Arden, North Carolina, followed by graduation from Davidson College in 1960. There, he excelled both academically and as Davidson's first Division 1 All-American as a member of the soccer team.

After graduating from Davidson, Claude was accepted to the Medical University of South Carolina but chose instead to serve his country. He entered the United States Navy through Officer Candidate School in Newport, Rhode Island, rising to the rank of lieutenant. During his five years in Naval Intelligence, he played a pivotal role in American history, including involvement in the Bay of Pigs confrontation in 1961.

Following his military service, Claude returned to Spartanburg and began his career in textiles. He worked with Hayes Textiles and Fiber and Yarn before transitioning to Ste-Lar, a New Jersey based company, where he built its textile waste business with characteristic determination and leadership-- living by the motto, "No Hill for a Climber".

Claude's faith was a guiding light throughout his life. His spiritual journey began at Central Methodist Church and continued at Christ Episcopal School. Later, he was an active member of the Church of the Advent in Spartanburg before settling in Pauline, SC, where he faithfully served as a vestry member at Calvary Episcopal Church.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 38 years, Beth Greene Finney; his children, Claude S. Finney III (Trey) and wife Anne Blair Brown of Nashville, TN, Kathryn Finney White and husband David Grier White, Sr. of Hillsborough, NC; and Justin Talbert Finney and wife Bailey Finney of Spartanburg; his grandchildren, Marjorie Coddington White, David Grier White Jr., John Edward Finney, and Sarah Renee Finney; his brother, Dr. Norman Reed Finney; and nephews, Thomas Reed Finney (Stephanie) and Watson Collins Finney (Kim).

He was preceded in death by his parents, Dr. Claude Swanson Finney Sr. and Elizabeth Nolan Finney, and by his daughter-in-law, Christine Lawerence Finney.

Claude was known for his kindness, humor, and gift for storytelling. He never met a stranger, and cherished friendships spanning a lifetime. He found joy in athletics, hunting, and especially fishing. Many of his happiest moments were spent offshore aboard The Outrageous, his beloved 31-foot Bertram fishing boat, shared with lifelong friends, Burnham Uhler and Dr. Julian Josey. One cannot forget his friends in "The Breakfast Club" and in his lunch group, "The ROMEO'S (Real Old Men Eating Out)”, friends being together, solving the problems of the world.

One of the most enduring stories of Claude's adventurous spirit came during Hurricane Hugo, when The Outrageous was caught in the storm, miles up the Cooper River with Claude and Burnham aboard, riding out the hurricane on the boat which was a total loss. They survived a harrowing night aboard before being rescued by the US Coast Guard the following morning-- a testament to both their courage and resilience.

Claude's legacy is one of unwavering faith, patriotic service, athletic excellence, professional integrity, and deep devotion to family and friends. He loved this country profoundly-- and perhaps nothing more than being at sea under open skies with those he loved most. He often reminded others, "I am penciled in...but subject to change."

We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to the CNAs, nurses, and the entire staff at White Oak Estates. You all went over and beyond to make Claude feel loved, cared for, and part of a family. You treated him with dignity and kindness during an extremely difficult time of his life. For this, you have our heartfelt thanks and admiration forever.

May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him and his life continue to inspire purpose, compassion, and joy.

Do not stand by my grave and weep...

I am not there...

I did not die....

Memorial services will be held at a later date.

In memory of Claude, donations may be made to: Calvary Episcopal Church, P.O. Box 549, Pauline SC, 29374 or to Carolina Loving Hound Rescue, P.O. Box 15288, Greenville, SC, 29610.