IRVINGTON—Claudia J. Holmes, beloved wife to Justin, stepmother to Glenda Empsall (John), grandmother to Nathan Empsall (Diana) and Chris Empsall (Tracy), great-grandmother to Sylvie, Oliver and Eleanor, Godmother to Julie Newman (Jason), friend to many and unceasing volunteer, passed away peacefully on February 25, 2025, at the age of 81.
Born in Chicago in 1943 to parents whose roots stretched across Germany and Sweden, Claudia’s journey through life was as vibrant and full as the many places she called home.
When Claudia was three years old, her family moved from Chicago to Decatur, Illinois. Growing up amidst the corn and soybean fields of central Illinois, she learned early to appreciate wide open spaces, a feeling that would stay with her throughout her life. It was in the heart of the Midwest where she first learned what it meant to feel at home.
In 1962, her family relocated to New Jersey—a place that would always hold a special place in her heart. Claudia began her career in government contracting, which set the stage for what would become a life full of travel and exploration. It was there she met her husband, Justin. They married in 1966 and together embarked on a journey that spanned the globe.
Their first wedding anniversary was in Bangkok, Thailand, where they would live for three years. During that time, Claudia was deeply involved in the community, helping to start a Lutheran church in Bangkok, and discovering the joy of sailing on the Gulf of Siam. She also had the unique experience of visiting Saigon twice during the Vietnam War, including attending Justin’s promotion ceremony to lieutenant colonel.
Claudia’s travels didn’t end there. She toured India, Hong Kong and Japan, always eager to learn about new cultures and explore new landscapes. In 1970, she and Justin moved to Northern Virginia for three years, followed by a move to Frankfurt, Germany, for two years. She soaked in the beauty of Europe, touring Germany, France and The Netherlands, before returning to Northern Virginia in 1975, and continuing her career in government contracting.
Claudia loved the Chesapeake Bay. She and Justin bought a sailboat, a powerboat and a farmhouse on the bay. She discovered the joy of golf and soon began organizing and enjoying many rounds with friends.
Wanderlust never left her. Claudia continued to travel, not only in every corner of the U.S., with her motto of “See more of America!”, but also to England, Ireland, Italy and Holland. She and Justin also bought a house on the Golden Eagle Golf Course, where she lived for many years.
In 1996, she retired and hung a sign around her neck that read, “Volunteer Sucker.” And indeed, she was. A devoted volunteer, she became involved in everything from the Red Cross to the garden club, church, Master Gardeners, the Free Health Clinic, book club and Scrapbooking. Claudia was instrumental in helping start another church, Living Water Lutheran Church, where she made many new friends and met Tom Wilhelmsen, with whom she shared many years of companionship, golf and laughter.
Through it all, Claudia made countless friends who became like family. She had a unique ability to connect with people, and she never met a stranger. Whether in far-flung corners of the world or in the neighborhood, Claudia always encountered people she knew. She delighted in those connections. Her love for her friends was immeasurable, and she deeply cherished each relationship.
We remember Claudia surrounded by the many facets of her life: government contracting, Army life, garden club, book club, scrapbooking, card making, golfing, Tom’s extended family, friends, neighbors, and, of course, her church family. The depth of her friendships speaks to the incredible impact she had on everyone she met.
Claudia lived a full, rich life—one filled with adventure, love and an unwavering commitment to her community and family. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her legacy lives on in our hearts as we continue to carry her light with us.
A Celebration of Life for Claudia will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 8, at Campbell Presbyterian Church, 3712 Weems Road, Weems, with a reception immediately following in the fellowship hall.
