Charlotte McClain, 81, of Centralia, passed away peacefully Sunday, August 3, 2025, at Twin Willows Nursing Home in Salem. She was born May 19, 1944, in Mt. Vernon, IL, the daughter of Owen and Gladis (Tomis) Gavette. She married Lloyd Ray McClain on September 7, 1961, in Mt Vernon, and he preceded her in death on April 5, 2002.
Survivors include her children, Tom McClain, Alen (Debbie) McClain, and Kim (David) Mireles; 11 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; a brother, Dale Gavette; a sister, Lavita Evans; a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
Along with her husband of 40 years, Lloyd Ray McClain, Charlotte was also preceded in death by her parents.
Charlotte was a devoted homemaker whose greatest joy was raising her children and nurturing the lives around her. A natural caregiver, she extended her compassion beyond her home, working faithfully as a CNA in Michigan and later at Odin Healthcare Center, where her gentle spirit and kind heart touched many. A dedicated member of First Christian Church Disciples of Christ in Centralia, Charlotte was always eager to lend a helping hand—especially if it involved baking something sweet to share. Her love for her church family ran deep, and she found fulfillment in serving others. Charlotte’s greatest treasures were her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and she relished every moment spent in their presence. With an exceptional green thumb, she took great pride in her garden, transforming her yard and flowerpots into vibrant displays of life and beauty. Her home, filled with charming chicken memorabilia and cuckoo clocks, was a reflection of her warmth, whimsy, and welcoming heart. Charlotte’s legacy of love, service, and joy lives on in all who had the privilege to know her.
A graveside service will be held at 12:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at Palestine Cemetery in Iuka with Pastor Adam Carlson officiating. Memorials may be made in Charlotte’s honor to Irvin Macz Funeral Homes to help with expenses. Online condolences and memories of Charlotte may be shared with her family by visiting maczfuneralhomes.com and/or on the funeral home’s Facebook page.
