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Obituary For Pastor Roshelle Roberts - McCrae
And he said to her, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.” ~ Luke 23:43 🕊
If you could see me now, you wouldn’t shed a tear. Though you may not understand why I’m no longer there. Remember my spirit that is the real me because I’m still very much alive, I’ve just been set free, Oh, if you could only see! I have beheld our Father’s face and I’ve touched my Savior’s hand.
All of Heaven’s angels rejoiced as I entered the Promised Land. Beyond the gates of pearl, I’ve walked on the golden streets. I’ve touched the walls of jasper and dipped my foot in the Crystal Sea. The beauty is beyond words and nothing could compare, I’ve even seen your mansion and someday I’ll meet you there. Let Jesus be your guide because His Word will show you the way! So please don’t cry because we will meet again someday.
To my loving and caring family, carry on and look to God for comfort. Know that I am no longer suffering, my mind is free and clear, and my love for each of you is everlasting. Continue to make your mark on the world.
“Who can find a Virtuous woman? For her price is far above Rubies…”- Proverbs 31:10
Roshelle Roberts McCrae entered this life on May 4, 1958, to Mr. Willie Lee Roberts and the late Shirley Marie McEady Roberts in Clinch County, GA.
“Her children arise and call her blessed: her husband also, and he praiseth her...” – Proverbs 31:28
Roshelle was a caring and giving person who cherished her family deeply. On December 20, 1980, John McCrae and Roshelle Roberts became married at Roshelle’s family church-Bethel AME in Lakeland, GA. To this union, two beautiful daughters were born. John and Roshelle were blessed on October 11, 1982, to welcome their first baby girl Latora Chante Huggins (Marquis). Their final daughter, Candace Monique, completed this family unit on July 5, 1990. On August 17, 2013, Jade Elis Richardson became the twinkle of her grandmother's eye as her only granddaughter.
At a young age, Roshelle always knew that her life’s mission was to help people and to be a voice for the voiceless. She was an educated woman who studied to show herself approved. Roshelle received her early education in the Lanier County Public School System. Following the completion of her undergraduate degree in psychology from Valdosta State University, she attained the Masters of Arts in Christian Education at United Theological Seminary in Dayton, OH.
“She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy…” – Proverbs 31:20
After graduating college, Roshelle became a mental health advocate with Greenleaf Behavioral Center, Valdosta, GA where she worked in mental health development for two years. She later took her skills to Parkwood Development Center, Valdosta, GA where she was a Behavioral Specialist working with the mentally and physically challenged giving a decade of service. After working for over 23 years and earning the title of At-Risk Adult Crime Tactics (ACT) Specialist for the State of Georgia in the Department of Family and Children Services (DFACS) and Division of Aging Adult Protective Services she decided to retire.
“She speaks with wisdom, and in her tongue is the law of kindness ”. – Proverbs 31:26
From her youth, Roshelle was active in the AME church. In the early days of her marriage, while teaching “Children’s Church” at Bethel AME in Lakeland, GA, her pastor, the late Bernard Benson approached her husband John and asked, “How do you feel about your wife becoming a preacher?” John, being the supportive husband, he was replied, “If the LORD called her, I’m not the one to ask.”
Roshelle was admitted into the 122nd Session of the Old Georgia Conference under the leadership of the late Bishop Frederick Hilborn Talbot and the late Presiding Elder J. B. Robinson. In 1991, Roshelle was ordained an Itinerant Elder under the leadership of the late Bishop John Hurst Adams. The Reverend Roshelle McCrae served with authority and grace to many AME Congregations throughout her ministry: St. Paul AME, Argyle, GA (3 yrs); St. Paul AME, Willacoochee, GA (3 yrs); Allen Chapel AME, Sandybottom, GA (7 yrs); Mt. Olive AME, Broxton, GA (7 yrs); Greater Bethel AME, Lakeland, GA (1 yr); and in 2009 Reverend McCrae was assigned to Greater Mt. Zion AME, Waycross, GA (12 yrs). She was the first woman to serve as the senior pastor in many of these assignments.
Roshelle was a true Pastor because she loved the hard work of ministry. This was displayed in the way she honored the ordinances of her faith in word and deed. She promoted attending church, church school, leading Bible study, Church History, Love Feast, and visiting the sick and shut-in members and non-members under her care at hospitals, nursing homes, personal care homes, and private homes consistently. Roshelle was a Pastor that always had an encouraging word, a scripture text, and a prayer for people who felt like they were not worthy, people who were just having a bad day, and for anyone she met that would accept what the Lord gave her to say. She too was an on-call volunteer chaplain for the local hospital. Over the years Roshelle received numerous awards and accolades from the church. One she cherished was being selected as the Waycross District YPD Pastor of the Year.
“Many women do noble things, but you excel them all”– Proverbs 31:29
Roshelle was always thinking of ways to help people in need in the Lanier County/Lakeland area. And was a woman of firsts trailblazing a path that none had walked before. She joined the local Ministerial Association of Lanier County and was the first female pastor to join. She birthed the idea of having a “5th Sunday sing”, where the churches in the region would come together and worship God through song on a rotating basis. The donations that were collected would go into an account that was opened at the local bank. She served as clerk ensuring those given these funds were screened and funds were used properly Roshelle was also an inaugural member and supporter of the “Peanut Butter and Jesus Ministry” of Lakeland/Lanier County where over 400 bagged lunches containing peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, fruit, and a juice box were given to kids and adults on Saturday mornings.
Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate. – Proverbs 31:31
Early June 14, 2022, at “The Langdale House” in Valdosta, GA, the LORD said to Roshelle “Well done my good and faithful servant. Your job is complete” and she transitioned from labor to reward.
Rev. McCrae was preceded in death by her mother Shirley Marie Roberts, grandmother and grandfather: Mattie Lee and Oscar McEady, aunts: Annie, Rosa Lee, Corrine, Nancy, and Martha, uncles: Oscar Jr., John C., John D., and Ivory, Mother and Father-in-Law: James and Charlie Mae, brother and sister-in-law: James Jr and Roberta McGriff.
Roshelle leaves to cherish her memories her husband John, children: Latora (Marquis) and Candace, grandchildren: Jade Elis and Taleb Huggins, father Willie Lee Roberts, brother Travis Roberts (Brenda), Sisters-in-law, Janice Hadley, Cynthia McCrae-Warren (Kenneth deceased), Brothers-in-law: Michael McCrae (Wonda), Frederick McCrae (Mary), uncles: Erasmus McEady (Loverette), Alvin McEady (Francis), Robert Lee McEady, aunts: Lola Mae McCrae (Earnest-deceased). Janice Gordon (Anthony-deceased), sister/friend Gwendolun Cloud, special friend Donna Sirmons (Arthur), god-children: Cedric Campbell, Jonathan Campbell, Keith Campbell, Gabriel Cloud, Kimberly Gaines, SFC Kizzy Lacey, and Ann Reese-Tyler. Special Cousins: Constance Jacobs (Melvin) and Kim Lacey (Arthur) She also leaves behind a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and loved ones.
Life is just a stepping-stone, a pause before we make it home. A simple place to rest and be, until we reach eternity. Everyone has a life journey, a path to take with lots to see. God guides our steps along the way, but we were never meant to stay. Our final destination is a place Filled with love, His majesty and grace.
The McCrae Family, extended family members, the community, the Body of Christ, and friends will gather to celebrate the life of Pastor Roshelle McCrae on Saturday, June 25, 2022 at 11:00 AM from the sanctuary of Southside Baptist Church - 326 South Hwy. 221 Lakeland, GA. Internment will follow at Charles Knight Cemetery.
A public viewing will take place on Thursday, June 23, 2022 from 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM from the Mt. Zion AME Church sanctuary in Waycross Georgia. In addition to Friday, June 24, 2022 from 12 Noon to 7:00 PM from the Bethel AME Church sanctuary in Lakeland Georgia.
The precious life of one who has gone before us, the race she has won. Her journey has now ended, her spirit has ascended claiming the great reward With Jesus, our Lord.
McCrae Family Members, on behalf of Mr. Antonio D. Harrington Sr., the Harrington family and the entire staff, we extend our deepest condolences and we thank you for entrusting us with your loved one. May the blessings of the Lord keep you is our prayer.
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One of the most wonderful people I had a pleasure of knowing. She was a gentle and kind soul. Her life was proof of what a Pastor, friend and believor of Christ Jesus should be. We will never forget you maam.
Lots of love ❤️ and comfort to the family. Cousins: Willie Mae Davis and family, Nashville Georgia
Praying for the family. She always had a listening ear and words of comfort for everyone. I will truly miss you!
Love always,
Antoine
May you feel the peace and comfort of God through the presence of the Holy Spirit during this time of grief. Pastor McCrae was committed to Kingdom work.
~~~~. Presiding Elder Nathaniel Neal & Pastor Debbie Grant Neal
Our condolences to the McCrae family as you celebrate the life and legacy of Pastor McCrae. She was a beautiful spirit and committed to kingdom work. We pray that you will experience the peace and comfort of God through the presence of the Holy Spirit during this time of grief.
~~~ Presiding Elder Nathaniel Neal & Pastor Debbie Grant-Neal and family
Our Thoughts and Prayers are with the family at this difficult time. Please know that our family Loved & Appreciated Pastor McCrae Very Much. Love and Condolences To The Family. Andrew and Celestine Jackson and Family
May God continue to hold you in his hands. Our prayers are always with you all. Pastor Gail Brown, St Thomas AME church Thomasville, GA
My Dearest,sweet niece. ROSHELLE, You will truly be missed! All of this seems surreal,I am still in awe! However, I am so thankful to God for allowing us to cross paths. you were the epitome of what all God's children should exemplify. I will miss you niece. Praying for the entire family, and asking God for strength and understanding. Nadine Boone
Prayers and condolences to the family. TyriannaTaylor&Family
Prayers and condolences to the family
My condolences to the family. Pastor McRae was a beautiful woman of God and her memory will live on forever. Debra Flowers Mocombe
Tell my aunties I said hello too. 💜Sharon
My dear cousin Rochelle you will surely be missed. Your words of encouragement and inspiration will forever be in my heart. Whenever I think of you I I think of my Dad John C. McEady. Your kindness, spirit and love of God was unwavering. I will forever love you. Until we meet again💕 P.S. Tell my dad and granny I said hello
Gone but never forgotten you were there for me at My most difficult time the lost of my father you were awesome woman of god Rest In peace. Lynn Mcwhite
Our pastor will surely be missed! May God keep his hands of protection and comfort over the family and friends of Pastor McCrae. Minister Margaret R. Griffin
Rev. McCrae was a special Pastor (one of my favorites, in fact). I thank God for the opportunity to meet and work with such a kind hearted woman of God. On some of my hardest days, I would receive uplifting text messages from her- encouraging me. On behalf of Fair Count, I send the deepest of condolences to your family and the Greater Mt. Zion AME church family. On behalf of myself I want you to know that I loved her. She was indeed a beautiful person and I am indeed better for knowing her. -Shun Tucker-Allen
The first time meeting her I feel in love with her. She was the sweetest person I've ever met. Rip Pastor Roshelle. Your love and smile will be missed.
I will forever love you. I will remember everything you told me. Thanks for always praying for me and the talks. Visit me whenever ~ Your Taylor
Reverend McRae was an awesome soldier of the cross, Pastor and friend. My prayer is that God give her family peace as He surrounds them with His love.
Cousin(Pastor Rochelle) worked for the Lord. She was with me doing my darkest hours. She prayed and comfort me while losing my father, husband, mother and 3 children. She neve let go, but still reminded me how good God was and to pray. She was our Rock in time of comfort! She helped us with through prayer, strength and love. We love her and she will stay alive in our hearts and memories! We love you dearly!
My heart is so heavy. My dearest friend had to leave. She was my very best friend although we didn't see one another that often. We texted one another multiple times a week, sometimes daily. We prayed together. I prayed for her without ceasing. May God give comfort and strength to the family. I'm praying for you all. Much Love 💜💜💜 Sharon Terry - Hinesville, GA
Roshelle was truly a prayer warrior. Sending prayers up and love to her family. Heaven has gained a precious jewel. Love you Roshelle ❤️🙌🏾🙏 Evangelist Debra Rutland
Rochelle, was an amazing co-worker I knew her from Parkwood she was happy and always speaking the special words of God to Staff! RIP my special friend walk high on those streets of gold.
My deepest sympathy to the McCrae family. I pray God's blessings on you in this time of need. Rest in peace 🙏🏽
My sincere condolences and prayers for Pastor McCrae's family and friends. A sweet soul gone,but never forgotten. Rest well my friend!
Prayers and condolences to the family
Prayers and condolences to the family 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼
May God Bless You and Your Love one, RIP Mrs.Mcrae
May the Love of God rest upon the Family God Bless. Jeannette Roberts and Family.
Pastor McCrae is going to always be with me in my heart and thoughts. Her life was an example to the believer. Not only did she preach and teach the word, she was a doer of the word. Although I am still processing what life on this side of life means without Pastor McCrae offering her love, leadership, and guidance, I am fully persuaded she is resting in the Lord's presence. For now, it's see you later.
With love and care, one who was entrusted in your pastoral care, Yvonne Inman Lott
We will always rember and never forget,My Condolences from my family to yours.
We will always rember and never forget, My Condolences to your family from OURS.Bennie Owens
Will always rember, and never forget.My condolences to you family from ours. Bennie Owens.
My deepest condolences to the family of the beloved Pastor McRae. You are definitely going to be missed and my family and I are forever grateful for you being a part of our life. May you Rest In Peace !💔🙏🏽 Kaye Kirkland & Family
Hallelujah....to God Almighty! A true Woman of God who lived what she preached. Rest easy my sister, job well done ❤️
Truly one of God's angels. She will be missed dearly. We are praying with and for the family. Madine Bradley.
Praying for the family New Beginning Church Ministries Bishop Willie Roberson Sr.
Went to school with this beautiful lady. May God bless and keep his loving arms around you all.
Wanda Bradford Blanton
To the family of Pastor McCrae, May God's comforting angels surround and comfort you. Thank you for sharing Pastor McCrae with the local congregations and communities in Georgia. Rest well God's messenger
Thanks for being a Hard Fighting Soldier in the army of the Lord. You will never be forgotten. I know you are having a Holy Ghost good time. Rest In Peace WOG!! Continuous prayers for your family.🙏🏽🥰
We are so sorry for your lost and we are praying that the Lord continue to strengthen you all during this time of sorrow! Sister Eloise Lester and Sister Mary Helen Bradley of St Mary's Baptist Church Naylor Ga.
Our hearts are heavy and our prayers are with the families of Mrs Roberts - McCrae what a beautiful person she loved her family and everyone but most of all she loved the Lord! Take your rest and we'll see you later! Mr Raymond and Mrs Barbara Doe of Naylor Ga.
Another SOLDIER gone home.Prayers sent to the family and much love to you all.
Condolences to the family and it's my prayer that God will continue to grant each of you strength in the days, weeks, months and years to come. Sincerely; Barbara Lordnum
Praying 🙏🏾 for the Family in this time of bereavement.
Rev. Kelly Faulk
Latora Huggins and Candace I will continue to keep you and your family in my prayers and thoughts I love you guys. Sending my Condolences to the family Trailda and Ralph Moss
"I love y'all" is what she'd always say when we were about part. We never had to wonder if she meant it because she displayed the love that she spoke of. She will be greatly missed. Hearts are broken but we can rejoice in knowing that she's in the arms of God.
My thoughts and prayers are with the family of my Sister in Ministry. May God be with you at this time of loss.
My ❤️ grieves for a precious person like you friend,even though we haven't spoken all,you always shared a place in my heart ♥️ as a true friend a spoken words of God and explaining to me some scriptures I didn't understand.I thank you for that always, the pleasure of working with you and sharing his words always no matter what the senory were. Rest my friend you are a true soilder of God. Bridgette James
May God keep his hands of protection and comfort over the family and friends of Pastor McRae
Praying for the family.
Praying for the family as a member of Mt. Olive A.M.E. Of Broxton Georgia I send my condolences
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.
