Opa "Thunder" Clegg, Jr.

 With hearts heavy, yet filled with the echoes of his infectious laughter, we announce the passing of Opa "Thunder" Clegg, Jr., a man whose presence was larger than life, and whose infectious smile had a way of making everyone feel loved.

January 27, 1951, Opa Clegg, Jr. entered the world at Walter Reed Army Hospital to his mother Clara and his father Opa, Sr.  As a child, he was beckoned by the wilds of nature that instilled in him a profound respect for the wilderness, along with a lifelong infatuation with the outdoors. It has long been rumored that he trained a wolf, a testament to his adventurous spirit and deep connection to the wild.

Thunder attended St. Emma's Military Academy in Powatan, Virginia and upon graduation; he attended Kentucky State University in Frankfort, Kentucky. After his time in Kentucky, Thunder embarked upon the mission that would define the next 30 years of his life. Thunder was a man amongst men and during his career with the Federal Department of Corrections, he forged a reputation as a warrior. His many heroic actions have gained legendary status and echo in the hearts and minds of those lucky enough to have known him. This goes for both co-workers and inmates alike. Thunder truly was a larger-than-life figure. He was loved by many and respected by all.

As we weep at such an immeasurable loss, Thunder has gone on to glory and rests peacefully to the right of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Thunder made his journey home on the morning of October 2, 2024, confident in the love of his family, and embraced by the arms of his beloved, Arline. He wouldn't have wanted it any other way.

Thunder is survived by his loving wife, Arline; children, Kiana (Mike) Strickland, Terrell (Gina) Clegg , Tenise Copeland, Travis (Tameka) Clegg, and Troy (Stephanie) Clegg; step-children, Christine (Ryan) Orr and Michael Stemmermann; grandchildren, Gemmia, Jasmine, Diodre, Davae, Tayla, Dylan, Isaiah, Adanna, Layah, Faith, Skye, Aluria, Shayne, Terrell, Jr., Trenton, Thai, Travis, Jr., Xavier, Elijah, Noah, Taylor, Michael, Jr., Ciara Grace; siblings, Brenda Boodram, Wanda Oliver, Olga Clegg, Anita Cunningham; and a host of nieces, nephews, and great grandchildren. He is preceded by his mother, Clara, father, Opa, Sr., and son, Opa, III.

A visitation with the family will be from 1 PM until 2 PM on Friday, October 11, 2024, in the chapel of Shingleton Funeral Home.  A Funeral Service will follow, starting at 2:00 PM at Shingleton Funeral Home, 2413 Nash Street NW, Wilson, NC 27894, with Rev. Marvin Frazier officiating. Burial will follow at Maplewood Cemetery.

 Arrangements entrusted to Shingleton Funeral Home 2413 Nash Street NW, Wilson, NC 27896. You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.shingletonfh.com

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