MANTEO — Pensacola Mae McClease, born October 26, 1932, was called home to be with the Lord on November 22, 2024. She was the beloved daughter of Norfleet Price Meekins and Bessie Mae Meekins. Pensacola was preceded in death by her beloved siblings, Lillian Austin, Beatrice Lee, Theodore Meekins, her grandson, LeQuan Golden, and her loving husband, Elder George Jacob McClease, Sr.
“Penny,” as she was affectionately known, was a native of Manteo, NC, and a member of Free Grace Church of Christ (Disciples of Christ). As the wife of a preacher and Pastor, she held various roles in several churches in Northeastern, NC, and Virginia. Pensacola worked various jobs during her life, most notably Head Start, White Doe Inn, and Matlock himself (Andy Griffith).
A devoted mother, Pensacola is survived by her six children; William B. Blackmond, Arnold B. Blackmond (Louetta), George “Jake” McClease, Jr. (Sharon), Thomas J. McClease (Tonya), retired SSG Noah D. McClease (Anna), and her beloved daughter, Wilhelmena D. McClease. Her legacy of love and faith continues through her 19 grandchildren, including; Takia Leigh, Alycia Blackmond, Christian Burton, Robert Duck, Jacob McClease, Tiffany O’Neal, Ishira McClease, Isaiah McClease, Gerald Wilson, Jr., Jasmine McClease, Cody McClease, Alexis McClease, Kyle McClease, Shavonne McClease, Marchon Stone, Yvonne Stone, Andrew Wynegar, and Kayla Wynegar. She also leaves behind 33 great-grandchildren, three great-great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins spanning five generations.
Pensacola’s life was a testament to her unwavering faith and devotion to her family. Her spiritual journey was marked by a deep connection to her religious beliefs, which provided her with strength and comfort throughout her life. She was a beacon of light and love, offering guidance and wisdom to all who knew her. As we mourn her passing we find solace in the knowledge that Pensacola is now at peace, embraced by the eternal love of her Creator. Her spirit lives on in the hearts of her family and friends who will forever cherish the memories of her kindness, humility, grace, humor, and unwavering faith. May she rest in heavenly peace, surrounded by the divine love she so deeply cherished.
The Mcclease family will have Pensacola’s visitation on Friday, November 29, 2024, from 6 pm to 8 pm at Gallop Funeral Services, Inc. Nags Head Chapel. The homegoing service will be held at 1 pm on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at Manteo First Assembly Church. Committal and burial will immediately follow at Haven Creek Cemetery. Please share expressions of sympathy with the McClease family via the online register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services, Inc. was entrusted with arrangements.
