Claude was born in Grenada, Mississippi, to Sylvia Jean Talford and Leroy Watt. His father preceded him in death. He was raised to be resilient and strong by his late grandfather, Richard Talford (Idell), who guided him into manhood.

He dedicated his life to Christ on May 12, 1968, at White Stone M.B. Church, later becoming a member of St. Augustine Catholic Church.

Claude was previously married to Gale Talford, and from that union, their beloved daughter, Ashley Chanel Talford, was born. Though their paths eventually diverged, the bond of family remained. Later, Claude remarried and found partnership with his devoted wife, Jane Venson-Talford.

Claude passed away at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Memphis on Thursday, January 7, 2021. He leaves behind a loving mother, Sylvia Talford OGaldez; his cherished daughter, Ashley Chanel Talford; his steadfast brothers, Bessie Norvell Watt, Leroy Deandre Watt, and Kevin Talford; as well as nieces, nephews, cousins, other family members, and a host of dear friends who will forever hold him in their hearts.