Elsie McClain Parker

Elsie McClain Parker, 86, of Albany, Georgia, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 2, 2025. Funeral services will be conducted Friday, April 18, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. at Mathews Funeral Home with Rev. Chad Ellis officiating. Interment will follow in Crown Hill Cemetery. 

She was born on April 29, 1938, in Newton, Georgia, to the late Ira and Myrtle McClain. For most of her life, she served as a homemaker. After her children were grown, she attended Albany Technical College and earned an associate’s degree in business. After the passing of her husband, she worked for the Dougherty County School System as a paraprofessional or teacher’s assistant in elementary classrooms. She enjoyed serving with the teachers and other assistants and working with the children. Elsie served for 11 years until her retirement.

Earlier in her life, Elsie placed her trust in Jesus Christ: “For by grace are ye saved, through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God. Not of works, lest any man should boast,” Ephesians 2:8-9. Because of God’s great gift of salvation, she is now in Heaven, beholding the face of the Savior.

Elsie was preceded in death by most of her seven siblings, along with her husband, Gratten Parker, Sr., and her two sons, Gratten Parker, Jr., and Kenny Lee Parker.

She is survived by her daughter, Debbie L. Parker, of Greenville, SC.

The family would like to express gratefulness for those who were a blessing to Elsie Parker’s life:

For neighbors, many of whom are currently nearby—and others who have moved—that continued to be great neighbors through helping with tasks, writing a note, sharing a special meal, and checking on and calling her to encourage her through their prayers.

For local businesses, for their service and care.

For hospital staff and caregivers for their thoughtful, professional, and loving care of her, especially in these most recent months of hospice care.

For the pastor and pastoral staff and deacons and their families at her church who have helped her in various practical ways and have encouraged her through Scripture and their time, care, and prayers.

For all those who have encouraged her family through your presence, calls, cards, assistance, and prayers as we rejoice in the hope that is in Christ.

May the Lord bless each of you for showing Christ’s compassion and care!

The family will receive friends Friday, April 18, 2025, at Mathews Funeral Home from 2:00 p.m. until the funeral hour.

In lieu of flowers, please make memorials in memory of Elsie McClain Parker to Gillionville Baptist Church, 4614 Gillionville Road, Albany, GA, 31721.