Nellie B. (Holland) McClain

Nellie B. Holland McClain, daughter of the late Jessie and Blumie (Chapman) Holland, was born August 16, 1935, in Lafayette County, Mississippi.

Nellie accepted Christ early in life and united with Flint Hill Missionary Baptist Church in Etta, MS, where she remained a very active, faithful, and dedicated member until her health failed. At Flint Hill, Nellie served as president and secretary for the Usher and Missionary Boards and was also a member of the Mothers’ Board.

She received her education and graduated from Liberty Hill School in 1953.

Always willing to do what the Lord called her to do, Nellie held several positions in the local missionary auxiliary including, usher, teacher, and secretary. She was a member of the TOMB Association and Congress of Christian Education, New Education State Congress/Convention, and the National Baptist Convention Inc.

She was an active member of the Order of the Eastern Star – Bathsheba Chapter #27 and Heroines of Jericho – Saint Mary’s Court #106 for 50+ years. She served as Matron of the OES for approximately 40 years.

Her employment journey included working at Kelwood and being self employed as a housekeeper and licensed insurance agent for many many years.

She was united in holy matrimony to Eugene McClain and to this union two sons were born.

Although short in stature and soft spoken, Nellie was very straight forward and outspoken. She was a fun and loving person who cherished her family dearly. In her spare time, she enjoyed working crossword puzzles, talking to friends and family on the phone, watching tv, particularly soap operas, listening to gospel music, and spending time with her family – especially her grands.

On Sunday, December 18, 2022, Nellie’s bright and shining light slowly dimmed as she answered her Father’s call. She passed away peacefully at Holly Springs Health and Rehab in Holly Springs, MS. Her memories will forever be cherished by her sons, Michael (Phyllis) McClain of Oxford, MS and Hugh (Tabitha) McClain of Abbeville, MS; bonus sons, Dwight (Lou) McClain of Grenada, MS and Douglas McClain of Anchorage, AK; a host of grandchildren and great grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Mattie Holland of Etta, MS and Linnie Holland of Memphis, TN; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Nellie was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Eugene McClain; daughter, Mary Ann Holland; bonus daughter, Dorinda Jean McClain; and brothers, Jollie and Eli Holland.