Claudette Ann Newkirk

It is with regret that we announce the passing of Claudette Ann Newkirk who died peacefully at her home in Poplar Bluff, Missouri on July 31, 2025, at the age of 82. She was born on December 14, 1942, in Long Beach California to her parents, Claude Cockrell, a US Naval officer, and Mary (Giguere) Cockrell. Growing up, Claudette and her family, including her sisters, Patricia and Mary Lynn, lived in numerous cities, including Brooklyn, New York before settling in San Diego. After attending college, she worked as an administrative assistant and eventually met and married Phil Newkirk, also a Naval officer stationed at Imperial Beach, California. In 1972 they moved, with their daughter Julie, to Poplar Bluff.

Claudette lived a full life of generosity, consideration, and love, imprinting upon the hearts of all who knew her. Her compassionate spirit extended beyond her family and friends to the countless animals that she and Phil rescued, fostered, and adopted.

She was a great cook and loved to work on their home and yard. Decorating for Halloween was a yearly tradition when hundreds of people would visit to trick or treat. She also loved her title of grandmother. Her grandsons were a light in her life, and she took every opportunity to let them know. She never missed the chance to do something kind for anyone, whether she knew them well or not.

Claudette is survived by her husband, Phil, her daughter, Julie, Newkirk-Vande Ven and her husband, Dave Vande Ven, her grandsons Jack, Ethan, and William Vande Ven, her sister Mary Lynn Guavera and many nieces and nephews.

The service will be held on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremation Services.

Visitation begins at 10 followed by the Funeral at 11:00. There will be a brief burial ceremony at the Missouri Veterans Cemetery in Bloomfield at 1:00.

In honor of Claudette’s memory, contributions can be made to the Animal Welfare Alliance of Southeast Missouri, a no-kill animal shelter she and Phil have been involved with for years.

Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremations Services is honored to serve the friends and family of Claudette Ann Newkirk. Online condolences can be made at www.cwrfcs.com