Claudia Lou Hedden

Claudia Lou Hedden (Atkisson) was born in Cushman, Arkansas, on April 11, 1924, to Carl and Margie Atkisson.  The fourth of five sisters, Claudia grew up in poverty during the Great Depression. Perhaps as a result of that experience, Claudia was always grateful for what she had and content with her lot in life. Claudia worked for more than 30 years at the Batesville Guard and worked the family’s land throughout her adult life. Claudia was imbued with a rock-solid work ethic that stayed with her until the day she died. She will be remembered by those who knew her as a kind, simple, humble soul with an intense (and extremely vocal) loyalty to her Razorbacks.

Claudia married her former schoolmate RF Hedden in 1961. They purchased a small house on a piece of property on the edge of town in Batesville, Arkansas. There, they set about raising three children (Andy, Scott, and Carla) and building a life. Claudia dedicated her life to her family.  Her children prospered under her love because of the character their parents instilled in them. She was the best mom (and grand mommie) any child could ever hope for.  We will all miss her fiercely.

Claudia’s sweet tooth was legendary, enabling her to eat even the most-sugar addicted grade schooler under the table at dessert time. During family game nights, Claudia was a true competitor who valued winning above all else (even the rules, if it came down to that). Claudia was a devout sports fan who kept up on the Razorbacks and liked nothing more than watching them play.  It didn’t matter what – as long as it involved Razorbacks and team sports she was all over it.

Claudia was preceded in death by her husband RF Hedden and each of her four sisters (Ella Merle, Augusta, Francis, and Kathleen).  She is survived by her three children Andy Goodwin (and his wife Brenda Goodwin), Scott Hedden (and his wife Diane Hedden), and Carla Cary (and her husband Jon Weiner). She is also survived by grandchildren Andrea Goodwin, John Goodwin, Foster Hedden, Mary Jane Hedden, Tate Hedden, Justin Cary, Brady Cary, and Sydney Cary; as well as great-grandchildren Chloe Cary, Liah Cary, Brooklynn Cary, Dakota Cary, Reece Ratliff, Mason Cary, Dylan Cary, Judson Goodwin, and Audrey Goodwin.

Funeral services will be Saturday, July 9, 2022, 10:00 A.M. at the Qualls Batesville Funeral Service Chapel with John High officiating. Burial will follow at the Oaklawn Cemetery in Batesville.

Arrangements by Qualls Batesville Funeral Service.

Visitation will be Friday, July 8, 2022, 5 to 7 P.M. at the funeral home.