I love the similar themes with all our memories of my “Gran Gran” from her sewing and cooking to her beautiful garden, a game of croquet in the back yard, and especially the competitive board/card/dice gaming. My favorite memories will always be the one on one moments I got to spend with her. Whether it was staying at her house when I was sick and she would load me up with candy and root beer. Or, when I would go mow her lawn, take her to the Commissary, or take her out to lunch at Luby’s or Barnacle Bill’s. And, no visit was complete without a game at the kitchen table. 

I love you Gran Gran. Rest In Peace. 

Peter, Beth, Tim , Susan and Family,
I just wanted to let you know that my thoughts and prayers are with you as you go through this most difficult time.  May God bless, strengthen and keep you.  
Love, Lena Jackson

Mom had many talents. She could sew, cook and bake better than anyone and had a garden that would make a master gardener green with envy.  I was so proud of my mom's sewing that I  volunteered her to make all of the outfits for the dolls of the world for my elementary school festival one year.  It was a huge surprise for her.  She stayed up late nights working on them and researched how each looked down to the smallest detail.  My favorite was the Scottish doll  with its tartan plaid. I vowed I'd win that doll  at the festival and I did!   

A few years ago after a visit to Ireland, I decided to host an Irish party. I cooked for 2 days beforehand but I made a special dish for my mother, Lamb Stew. She loved it and wanted seconds but was worried there wouldn't be enough for the other guests to have a taste. Sure enough that stew emptied quick. On her way out the door I gave her a "to go" bag and when she looked inside a huge grin spread over her face. I had stashed the stew for her to take home. Just a little something to show how much I loved her.

To the McClain Children,

My condolences and heart felt sympathy to you and your entire family. Cherish those beautiful memories of your mother. She is now in peace, pain free, happily ever after. Your comfort should be knowing that she is resting in peace and will live eternally in the kingdom of God. Your grief journey will be long, but always remember where there is deep grief, there is great love. Our Lord will wrap his arms around you and give you strength and peace. 

“Eternal rest, grant unto her O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon her. May she rest in peace. Amen.”  🙏


My family lived out of town for decades,  but when we would come for visits  it was so wonderful!  Mom would meet us at the door with a big smile, hugs and kisses.  Our favorite foods were already prepared and board games and cards set out to play.  We would get a tour of her always beautiful garden.   Such a warm welcome and we felt so loved and cherished.  Very  proud and lucky to have had Helen McClain for my mother!  

Helen, was a loving mother and a feisty lady. She had to be to raise 10 kids by herself. She taught all her kids to be great cooks and bakers including her sons. She always wanted to win at her favorite games and she would let you know it, especially with Kevin.  She also loved scratching off lottery tickets. But besides loving her kids, she loved food, especially candy. During Halloween she would go buy bags and bags of candy. By Halloween all the candy was gone, and trick or treating hadn't started yet!  

We will miss her!
Eddie

The memories of Mama's warm, happy kitchen and beautiful garden will be in my heart forever.   You gave me a wonderful family I never had, and always wished for, and a husband that  will be my heart and soul forever.  I thank you for being such a big influence on my life and will treasure every single memory forever. Love you so much Mama.   
Lin

Gardening, baking, and gaming!  Mama was always in her garden or in her kitchen making the most delicious pies and cakes. But as good as her baking  and gardening were, nothing compared to the the rousing board games we played. Mama played to win and it was hard to beat her!  Her love of games is legendary with our family and friends.  "Want to play a game?", would often lead to hours of playing cards, dice, or her favorite board games because it was so fun.  I can still her her sweet talking the dice, "Be there baby, be there!", as she rolled them.    




Dear Loved Ones of Mrs. McClain,

Please know Steve & I have you all in our thoughts. I have countless memories of playing games and cards with her and Barbara, and I think fondly of the laughter we shared. Thank you for having such a wonderful Mom and sharing her with those of us that were lucky enough to know her. 

Love,

Helen

I will always remember how my grandmother taught me and my cousins how to play board games, sew and bake. She never cut corners or let us win when it came to games. She taught us to earn every win so that we could appreciate it. I will also remember how much she LOVED food, especially dessert.

Countless touching and funny memories of this very courageous and loving woman, but I will always see mama jumping out of the car before it was even stopped so that she could bet $2 on the first race of the day at Bandera Downs!  

OBITUARY

Helen McClain

November 16, 1928 – March 5, 2020

Sunset Memorial Park & Funeral Home

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