Effie Lee McLaurin Clanton, 97

Mrs. Effie Lee McLaurin Clanton, 97, passed away at her residence on July 15, 2026.

She started in life's journey early, doing housekeeping and cooking for others as a means of support. When she relocated to Erie, PAS, she found work at a bakery and later transitioned into the hospital setting.

When her parents' health began to decline, she returned to Collins, MS, and during this time she was employed in the poultry processing industry until retiring. She never lost her passion for cooking and baking. She was well known for flavorful vegetables, fried chicken, and unforgettable pineapple cake. She manifested a green thumb and had an array of beautiful green plants that covered her front porch. She dedicated her life to the Heavenly Father, Jehovah, in Mobile, AL in 1974. She enjoyed listening to Kingdom Melodies, and her favorite song was "Listen Obey and Be Blessed."

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Ben Clanton Jr; parents, Estus and Dellie McLaurin; two sisters, Rosie Bell McClindon and Rosa Lee Magee; four brothers, George McLaurin, Rosevelt McLaurin, Elbert McLaurin, and D. L. McLaurin.

Survivors include her children, Clara (Jorje) Melendez, Ben Clanton, III, and Marion Clanton; grandchildren, Kyle Tramaine, Brennion Auntwuan, Ben Javaaar, Lela Malaine, Tommy Lee; four great-grandchildren, Messiah Azlynn, Messir, Marsai; and siblings, Shellie McLaurin, Josephine Bass. Sanders McLaurin, Estus Jr(Annie) McLaurin, and Bettye Rose Hathorn; two sisters-in-law, Hazel McLaurin and Diane McLaurin; and a host of nieces, nephews, and spiritual brothers and sisters.

Memorial Talk was presented by Brother Clarence Barnes.