Mary Elizabeth "Lil" Wesley Barclay

Mary Elizabeth “Lil” Wesley Barclay, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on November 30, 2024, at the age of 96 in Austell, GA. Born on September 20, 1928, in Talladega, AL, Lil was a beacon of love, kindness, and resilience to all who knew her.

Lil attended Westside Elementary School and Drewry Practice High School, where her love for learning began. She worked as a cook from 1944 to 1980, a career that not only nourished countless people but also reflected her dedication to providing for her family and community.

Her life was deeply rooted in faith and fellowship. She was a devoted member of several congregations over the years, including Peace Baptist Church, Ebenezer Baptist Church in Talladega, AL, Union Grove Baptist Church in Union City, GA, and Christian Fellowship Ministry in Dacula, GA. Her unwavering faith was evident in her daily life and the love she shared with everyone around her.

Lil enjoyed simple yet meaningful joys—reading, gardening, and experimenting with new recipes. She had a kind-hearted, forgiving, and generous spirit that drew people to her. Her easy-going demeanor made her a cherished confidant and a loving friend to many. She faced life’s challenges with strength and grace, setting an example for her family to do the same.

A devoted mother, Lil made her family feel deeply loved and valued. She balanced spoiling her children with the discipline they needed to grow into strong individuals. She was a good neighbor and an enduring source of support to her friends and community.

Lil is preceded in death by her parents, James Wesley and Margaret Curry; her husband, McCordis Barclay, Sr.; her son, Charlie Howard Barclay; and her uncle, Howard Curry. She is survived by her children, Evelyn Knight (David), McCordis Barclay, Jr. (Mavis), Michael Barclay (Janice), Rickey Barclay (Shaunta), Jewel Kaai (Ed), and Stanley Barclay (Teresa). She also leaves behind 24 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends who will cherish her memory.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, December 8, 2024, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, with a funeral service to follow at 1:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in her honor.

Lil Barclay’s life was a testament to love, faith, and perseverance. Her legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.