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Claude Elkins was a coal miner and brick mason from Dickenson County, Virginia, who passed away in 2016 at age 77. He worked in Southwest Virginia’s coal industry and left behind three daughters, two sisters, 14 grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Claude Elkins spent his entire life in Dickenson County, Virginia, a region shaped by coal mining and tight-knit Appalachian communities. Born to Henry J. and Effie Elkins, he grew up during an era when coal powered both the local economy and his family’s livelihood.
He died on September 29, 2016, at Heritage Hall Health Care Center in Big Stone Gap. His passing marked the end of a life spent working the mines and building structures across Southwest Virginia.
Dickenson County sits in the heart of Appalachian coal country. The region’s economy depended on mining for generations, with families like the Elkins working underground to extract the resource that heated homes and powered industries across America.
Claude came of age during the peak years of coal mining in Southwest Virginia. The work was dangerous but provided a stable income for mountain families. Most men in the area either worked in the mines or in trades that supported mining operations.
His upbringing reflected the values of rural Appalachia: hard work, family loyalty, and community ties that lasted decades. These principles guided him throughout his adult life.
Claude spent years working as a coal miner before transitioning to brick masonry. Both professions require physical strength, technical skill, and the ability to work in challenging conditions.
Coal mining in Southwest Virginia involved deep shaft operations and room-and-pillar extraction methods. Miners worked long shifts in dark, cramped spaces hundreds of feet underground. The pay supported families but came with significant health and safety risks.
As a brick mason, Claude helped construct buildings throughout the region. This trade allowed him to work above ground while still providing essential services to growing communities. Many structures across Dickenson County and the surrounding areas likely bear his craftsmanship.
His retirement came after decades of manual labor that left its mark on his body. Like many coal miners, he likely dealt with respiratory issues and physical wear from years of demanding work.
Claude married Evelynlene Collins Elkins, who preceded him in death. Together, they raised three daughters in Southwest Virginia: Vicki Blevins (married to A.C.) of Coeburn, Teresa Tilley of Abingdon, and Felicia Elkins of Wise.
His daughters built their own families in nearby communities, maintaining the regional ties common in Appalachian culture. The extended family often lived within driving distance, creating networks of support and regular gatherings.
Claude’s sisters survived him: Wilma Mullins of Appalachia, Virginia, and Faye Taylor of Ardmore, Alabama. His sister Marlene Griffith passed away before him, as did his parents and wife.
His special cousin and friend, John A. Elkins, maintained a close relationship throughout Claude’s life. These extended family bonds reflected the importance of kinship in mountain communities.
By the time of his death, Claude had seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. These descendants carried forward the family name and memories across multiple generations.
Claude spent his final time at Heritage Hall Health Care Center in Big Stone Gap, about 20 miles from Clintwood. The staff there became part of his extended family, providing care during his decline.
Long-term care facilities in rural Appalachia often develop close relationships with residents who spend months or years under their care. Staff members remember patients’ stories, preferences, and family histories.
The Heritage Hall family, as mentioned in his obituary, represents this bond between caregivers and residents. His daughters likely visited regularly, maintaining the family connection even as professional caregivers managed his daily needs.
His funeral service took place on October 2, 2016, at Clintwood Funeral Home Chapel. Lynn Vanover and Frank Hall officiated the 3:00 PM service, bringing together family, friends, and community members to remember his life.
Funeral services in small Appalachian towns draw large crowds. Neighbors who knew the deceased for decades attend to pay their respects and support the family. These gatherings strengthen community bonds and honor the shared history of mountain life.
The service likely included hymns, personal remembrances, and recognition of his work ethic and family dedication. Rural Virginia funeral traditions emphasize community support and collective mourning.
Claude’s life represents a common story in Southwest Virginia: generations of men who worked dangerous jobs to provide for their families, built their communities through skilled trades, and maintained tight family networks across decades.
His contributions as a coal miner and brick mason helped shape the physical and economic landscape of Dickenson County. The coal he extracted powered homes and industries. The structures he built still stand as testaments to craftsmanship and hard work.
More significantly, his legacy lives through his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Fourteen descendants carry forward family traditions, stories, and values learned from their patriarch.
Multiple individuals named Claude Elkins appear in online searches, creating confusion for those seeking information about specific people. This Claude Elkins from Clintwood is distinct from:
Claude Edward Elkins of Tacoma, Virginia (died 2023), a veteran and entrepreneur.
Claude K. Elkins Jr. of Louisiana (died 2021), an engineer and Bell South executive.
Claude E. Elkins, a corporate executive currently serving as Chief Marketing Officer at Norfolk Southern Corp.
When searching for obituary information, include specific location details like “Clintwood” or “Dickenson County” to narrow results. Funeral home websites maintain obituary archives that provide accurate information about deceased individuals.
The Clintwood Funeral Home website hosts Claude’s full obituary with service details and family information. Legacy.com and other memorial sites aggregate obituaries but may mix results for different people with the same name.
For those researching family history or genealogy, county records in Dickenson County include birth certificates, marriage licenses, and death certificates that provide official documentation of life events. The Virginia Department of Health maintains vital records dating back over a century.
This article honors Claude Elkins (1939-2016) of Dickenson County, Virginia. Information comes from his obituary at Clintwood Funeral Home and reflects the life of a coal miner and brick mason who dedicated his life to family and community in Southwest Virginia.
