Rebecca Ruth Ray McClellan

Rebecca Ruth Ray McClellan, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 27, 2025, in her home in Chula, Georgia. She was born on July 26, 1940, and lived a life rich with engagement, service, and a relentless spirit of joy and community.

Mrs. Becky’s journey began in North Carolina as the daughter of a Baptist minister, where she graduated high school before pursuing further education at Western Carolina University. The knowledge she gained would be but a stepping stone to the lasting contributions she made within her community. Her career flourished as she helped her son and sister in their factory sales representative business, showcasing her capacity for support and collaboration within the family.

She was a cherished figure at Northside Baptist Church, where she was a steadfast member for over fifty years. Mrs. Becky played a pivotal role in nurturing youth through her involvement in Creative Ministries and frequently immersed herself in the life of the church, participating in a plethora of community events. Among her most cherished activities was her treasured participation in productions at Northside Baptist Church and at The Tift Theatre. Her favorite production was the One Starry Night event at the church.

She was a woman of remarkable wisdom and unwavering faith, whose life reflected the light of Jesus in all that she did. Known for her ability to listen with compassion, she had a gift for making everyone feel valued and at ease in her presence. Her devotion to family and community was steadfast, as she consistently placed others before herself and chose to be fully present in the lives of those she loved. Independent and strong-spirited, she embraced life with curiosity and courage, finding joy in travel and experiencing the beauty of the world. She was a source of encouragement to many, inspiring others to pursue their passions and to live with faith, purpose, and love.

Mrs. Becky’s dedication to her community was mirrored in her esteemed roles on the Tift County Tax Equalization Board and the State of Georgia Grant Board.

In passing, she reunites with her parents, Rev. Ben Lee Ray and Grace Atkins Ray, as well as her sisters, Jo Parker and Betty Canipe, who all predeceased her.

She is survived by her loving husband, Art McClellan, with whom she shared a remarkable sixty-three years of marriage. She leaves behind her sons, Nick McClellan and his wife Pam, and Jeff McClellan and his wife Jessica, who will carry on her legacy of kindness and devotion. Her grandchildren—Nicole and Luke Bragg, Blakely and Maxx Shultz, Ross and Paren McClellan, Molly McClellan, Madeline McClellan, and Emma McClellan—represent a tapestry of her love and influence for generations to come. Her great-grandchildren—Lucy and Annie Bragg, Lev McClellan, and Coen Shultz—brought her immense joy.

A visitation will be held on October 5, 2025, from 1:30 PM to 2:45 PM at Albritton Funeral Directors located at 1020 Tift Ave N., Tifton, Georgia. The funeral service will be held at 3:00 PM at the funeral home chapel with Rev. Stacy Phillips officiating. The interment will be held at Tift Memorial Gardens.

Albritton Funeral Directors is in charge of the arrangements.