Claudette Wooten Mandigo

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Claudette Mandigo, a loving and beloved daughter, sister, mother, and grandmother. Claudette, who left us on June 17, 2025, was a spunky woman with a fun and adventurous spirit who loved to connect with others.

Born and raised in Cove City, Claudette was a proud graduate of Farm Life High School. Her career journey was as varied as it was fascinating, with roles ranging from school bus driver to serving as a secretary to former NC Governor Jim Hunt. Ultimately, she found a passion as a kitchen designer, where her creativity blossomed at various home improvement stores in New Bern and the Outer Banks. Her love for meeting new people and making new friends was evident throughout her journey, and she embraced every opportunity to connect with others, often taking pictures and saving mementos along the way. Claudette loved ACC basketball, especially the Wolfpack of NC State. She also loved animals and had all kinds of pets over her life - ducks, rabbits, cats and many dogs. Above all, Claudette incredibly proud to be "MeMe" to her grandchildren, who she loved spending time playing and being silly with.

She is preceded in death by her dad, Elwood Freeman, and lovingly survived by her mother, Laura Bryan Freeman; her brother, Brian Freeman;
her children, Rob Mandigo and Lyn Langman (Mike); her beloved grandchildren, Matthew, Luke, Nathan, and Harbour; and many wonderful friends whom she connected with and loved dearly.

In the book of Proverbs, it is written, "She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come." This verse captures the beautiful spirit of Claudette - a woman who faced challenges with grace, courage, and faith. Her legacy of love, resilience, and generosity will continue to inspire and guide us.

We invite you to join us in celebrating Claudette's life and legacy on June 23, 2025, at 11:00am at the Greenleaf Memorial Park Lakeside Chapel, located at 900 River Road, New Bern, North Carolina 28562.

We encourage those who knew Claudette to share their memories and pictures on her memorial page. Your stories and photos will serve as a comforting reminder of the impact Claudette had on the many lives she touched. In lieu of flowers, please consider contributing to a local animal shelter in her memory.

Bennett Funeral & Cremation Care is honored to serve the family and friends of Claudette Mandigo.