Mrs. Aretha H. McClain was born on March 12, 1944, in Brooks County, Quitman, Georgia, to the late Autley “Bill” Holmes and the late Addie Lee Seay Holmes. She was educated in the Brooks County School System.

At an early age, Mrs. McClain accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior. She first joined Fodie Church of God, where she served faithfully for many years. In the 1970s, she became a devoted member of Second Elizabeth Missionary Baptist Church, where she remained until her health declined. She served faithfully as a Deaconess and Mother of the church. She also lent her voice to the I Need Help Choir and worked alongside various churches and choirs in the community. One thing was certain: she truly loved the Lord and was never ashamed to boldly declare, “Thus saith the Lord.”

On August 31, 1963, Aretha was united in Holy Matrimony to the late James Wesley McClain. To this blessed union, fifteen children were born. They shared a devoted love for thirty-six years until his passing.

Mrs. McClain was a dedicated worker. She gave 28 years of service to Levi Strauss & Company. After retirement, she continued to serve her community through employment at Quitman Manufacturing, the Presbyterian Home, and the Brooks County School System Cafeteria.

On September 27, 2025, Mrs. Aretha H. McClain gained her heavenly wings and entered into eternal rest.

She leaves to cherish her loving memory: Her devoted daughters and sons: Cynthia McClain, Trina McClain, and Debbie McClain, all of Quitman, GA; Coretta McKinnon (Jerome) of Winder, GA; Charese McClain and Daphne McClain of Valdosta, GA; Tonya “Tasha” McClain of Jacksonville, FL; Freddrick “Fred” McClain and Kenneth “Kenny” McClain of Quitman, GA. She was preceded in death by her daughters Norma J. McClain, Kelly A. McClain, and Sandra D. McClain Jones.

One brother, Jack Holmes of Quitman, GA, survives her, along with sisters-in-law Christine Holmes of Valdosta, GA, and Rudene Scott of Winter Haven, FL; and one brother-in-law, Charles McClain of Lakeland, FL. She was preceded in death by her siblings Solomon Holmes, Nell M. Holmes Cody and Autley Holmes, Jr.

She will be lovingly remembered by her grandchildren: Solomon “Pnut” McClain (Candace), Thomas “Bubba” McClain, Sr. (Shaquilla), Marcus McClain, Tavoris “AJ” Johnson, LaNisha Head, Keyshunna McKinnon, Kayla McKinnon, and Ameria Washington. Her great-grandchildren: Jartavion “JT” McClain, Thomas “TJ” McClain, Jr., Braylen “Lil Pnut 2” McClain, Kamden “Lil Pnut 3” McClain, Dylan Smith, Camaya Lyles, and Michelle “Juicy” McClain. Special nieces and nephew: Abigail Holmes, Cheryl “Shady” Holmes, and James “Jamie” Holmes (Angela).

Special friends who shared in her journey: her childhood friend since 7th grade, Dorothy Brooks Staten; Pastor Alonza and First Lady Fudge; cousin Easter Mae Miley; and her caring neighbors Willie Mack and JoCarolyn Brown.

She also leaves behind a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, church family, and dear friends who will forever treasure her memory.

Mrs. Aretha H. McClain’s legacy is one of faith, service, love, and dedication to God and her family. Though she has departed this earthly life, her spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Public Viewing: 1:00-6:00 PM, Friday, October 3, 2025 and Wake: 6:00 – 7:00 PM in the BTW Funeral Services Chapel.

Celebration of Life Service for Mrs. Mrs. Aretha H. McClain will be held Saturday, October 4, 2025 at 11:00 AM – Second Elizabeth Baptist Church, Rev. Alonza Fudge, Eulogist. Internment: Church Cemetery.