Elder Elista Waters Obituary in Steelton at Major H. Winfield Funeral Home

Obituary For Elder Elista Waters

Elder Elista P. Waters (affectionately known as Tiny), 86, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, peacefully transitioned into eternal life on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at UPMC Community Osteopathic Hospital in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. She was born in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, daughter of the late Elder Pauline McLamb, the late Taylor Fisher and stepfather, the late Elder Henry McLamb.

She held many jobs over her lifetime. She worked for the Federal Government for over 25 years where she retired as a Management Analyst of the New Cumberland Army Depot. She had an entrepreneurial spirit and was a beautician that owned her own beauty salon. She owned a bakery where she worked alongside her sister Willa Mae Freeland. She also was a daycare director.

Elder Waters loved learning and thought you were never too old to learn. She obtained an associate’s degree in early childhood education and business administration from Harrisburg Area Community College. She went on to obtain a bachelor’s degree she was very proud of at the age of 77 in early childhood education from Eastern University. She also obtained a master’s degree in human services from Lincoln University.

She was most proud of her work for God and with children. Elder Waters was the founder and director of McLamb Memorial Church of the Living God Day Care where she along with all of her staff helped well over a hundred children to learn and grow. More than learning she loved God. She served as Assistant Pastor of McLamb Memorial CLG prior to becoming the pastor under the late Elder Pauline McLamb. She labored for God as the shepherd of McLamb Memorial CLG as the pastor for almost 28 years. She was always known as a compassionate woman of God that would help anyone including strangers off the street. She was gifted at giving. She gave to anyone that needed it and also lended her time to all that asked for it or that she saw needed it. She was also known as half of Les and Tiny’s and the Carrousel that were black owned businesses people frequented for a good time and to have that hometown environment until she answered God’s call to serve and work for him.

In addition to her mother, father and stepfather, she was preceded in death by her husband of 43 years, Leslie Waters; her son, Warren Ray, Jr.; her brother, Ernest Fisher; her sister, Willa Mae Freeland; her grandson, Tariq W. Ray, Sr. and stepson, Gary Waters. She leaves to celebrate her life, her two daughters, Rev. Valerie Elam and Rev. Kathryn Waters, Esq.; her sister, Carol McLamb-Bair; her brother, Gary Fisher; her stepdaughters, Karen Waters, Leslie Waters, Mary Ann Waters, Audrey McClain and Rhonda Scott; 9 grandchildren; 12 step grandchildren; 29 great grandchildren; 13 great-great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

Elder Elista Waters' life will be celebrated on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at 11 a.m. in the Sanctuary of The First Baptist Church of Steelton, 1850 South 19th Street, Harrisburg, PA 17104 with viewing and visitation from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. and burial in East Harrisburg Cemetery. A repast immediately following the burial at The First Baptist Church of Steelton Fellowship Hall.

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Condolences & Tributes

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Ms. Leslie & family, my condolences and prayers of comfort during this time.

Chante Harrison Clark

Valerie and family I'm deeply saddened to hear of the passing of your mother. Sending prayers 🙏 of comfort for the family during this difficult time. (Tiny) will be remembered by many for her kindness and always willing to help those in need.

Georgia chisolm

My deepest condolences to the Waters and Mclamb family, We were one big family because of the close friendship of her mother Elder McLamb and my Mother Mother Martin. Both of our families are blessed today because of them both and dedication to the Lord that Savior and the church both praying Women of God

Jacqueline Marshall

i would like to give my deepest condolences to Mclamb and Walters Family , I used to work for Pastor Mclamb at her daycare center she was so nice to me i was working in the 1 yrs old room i loved working there and her sis Ms. Williemae love working with her as well good memories of her and that beautiful smile and laughter she will never be forgotten .

vickie hutchinson

Prayers and Condolences to the Family

Beverly Burhannan-Blackstone

To Waters and McLamb Family,With Deepest Sympathy! May you be Comforted by The joyful memories and The happy Times you spent together. Love from the Banks Family.

Brenda Banks Toomey

Our deepest condolences to all of you. Of course, our kindest thoughts and heartfelt prayers are with you. Michele and Family

Joy Waters Fleming

My sincerest condolences to the family. Mrs. Waters was one of the kindest sweetest women I've ever met and what an inspiration! She was especially kind to my son Austin and I will always be appreciative of that. I know many hearts are hurting and you're in my prayers...

Cindy Christine

Cousin/Aunt Tiny; I know that you're now basking in the beauty and glory of Heaven, but you will definitely be missed here on Earth. You've always had a warm heart, a pleasant demeanor, and a welcoming smile. I'm grateful to have known you, loved you, and been a part of your family through blood and spirit. You've put in the work to leave your mark on Earth. Take your rest, you deserve it. - with love and admiration, Marla Sims

Marla Sims

My sincere sympathy to Val and the family at this difficult time. I've known Tiny since elementary school and her personality never changed, always greeted you with a pleasant smile and cheerful hi. Keeping the family in prayer. Gwen Williams & Family

Gwen Williams

To Carol, Anita & Family, My heartfelt condolences is extended to you and your family. I wish you comfort during this trying time...God Bless you.

Annette Roy

My condolences to the family of elder Tiny Waters she was a very nice person I remember her back in the day. She will be miss very much.

Patty Davis Roebuck

Your love is everlasting, and your memories will forever be cherished. Though you may be gone, your presence will always be felt. Your love and guidance will continue to guide us through life. I will always remember the advice you found pleasure in sharing with us and will forever be thankful. Your death left a deep void in our hearts, but the memory of your tenderness and loving ways will always get me especially through my lonely days. Rest in Heaven 😇 Love your great, great, great niece 🤍

Janita Brown

You will truly be missed such a sweet humble happy soul full of happiness I'm thankful to be able to have some memories with you grandmom tiny praying for the family I love yall

Nyshell traynham

Pastor,Elder Elista Waters My aunt who wore many hats, my families Matriarch. I am going to really miss you but I know you're with the Lord. I thank God for all the love and wisdom you gave me. I will treasure all the memories of you in my heart. I Love you so much. Your niece Anita Blackston

Anita Blackston

My Dear Sister/Pastor You Are So Greatly Missed 🕊😇🕊 Continue to Watch Over Us along with Our Family in Heaven! Forever in My Heart! ❤️

Carol McLamb-Bair

Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

Major H. Winfield Funeral Home | Steelton, PA