Claude Shiflet passed away today, December 7, with family at his side. The American Saddlebred Hall of Fame trainer was 87. He and his bride Alice had just celebrated their 67th anniversary the day before.

The longtime resident of Asheboro, North Carolina, had a long history in the American Saddlebred world, which included working for the famed Dodge Stables. From the Carolinas he teamed many top amateur and juvenile riders to winning careers, in addition to developing and selling world’s and national champion young horses. Claude was inducted into the UPHA Tom Moore Hall of Fame in 1997 and the World’s Championship Horse Show Hall of Fame in 2002.

His legacy has long been extended through his sons Harrison, Doug, Mark and Shane, his grandsons, Matthew and Grant and their families. Next to his faith, family was the most important thing to Claude.

Visitation will be December 11, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Pugh Funeral Home, 437 Sunset St., Asheboro, North Carolina 27203. A Celebration of Life will be held December 12th at 11 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, 420 West Walker Ave., Asheboro.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to: Hospice of Randolph, 446 Vision Dr., Asheboro, NC 27203; Christian Outreach Center, 135 Sunset Ave, Asheboro, NC 27203; or Our Daily Bread Soup Kitchen, 831 Pritchard St., Asheboro, NC 27203.