Elaine McPherson

Elaine Friday McPherson, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family, on October 12, 2025. She was 88 years old.

Born on March 24, 1937, to Marvin Lavelle Friday and Sybil Missouri Knowles in Birmingham, Alabama, Elaine's life was a testament to love, devotion, and service. She graduated from Hewitt Trussville High School in 1955, marking the beginning of a journey filled with meaningful relationships, deep faith, and a love for the simple joys of life.

Elaine was a cherished member of Dawson Memorial Baptist Church in Homewood, Alabama, where her faith flourished through her involvement in her Sunday school class. She found great purpose and peace in the community there, touching the lives of many with her kindness and unwavering belief.

On April 4, 1959, Elaine married her soulmate, Samuel Ray McPherson, at Black Creek Baptist Church in Birmingham. Their marriage of nearly 64 years was a partnership built on love, mutual respect, and shared dreams. Together, they raised four children: Emily, David, Mark, and Amy, who were the heart of Elaine’s world.

Elaine and Ray shared a special bond with their farm in Blount County, Alabama, a place where they found joy in working together to cultivate vegetable gardens and nurture the beauty of their surroundings. Their love for nature was reflected in their carefully tended yard, where wild hydrangeas, dogwoods, azaleas, and ferns flourished. Elaine found peace in the rhythm of planting, tending, and watching the seasons change.

Elaine had a deep appreciation for the beauty of the world beyond her garden, and she especially cherished the time spent traveling with her family. Whether it was the sun-kissed shores of the beach, the misty peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains, or the adventures of visiting extended family across the country, Elaine found joy in exploring new places and making memories with those she loved. These trips were always filled with laughter, shared stories, and moments of togetherness that became treasured chapters in the family’s story.

She was known for her generosity and warmth, especially when it came to hosting her family during the holidays. Christmas, in particular, was a time when her home was filled with love, laughter, and the scent of freshly baked treats. Her holiday traditions created lasting memories for all who were fortunate enough to gather around her table.

Elaine was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Samuel Ray McPherson, and her siblings: Joan Ellenburg, Kenneth Friday, and Bobby Friday. While we mourn her passing, we take comfort in knowing she has been reunited with those she loved.

Elaine’s legacy lives on in her children: Emily McPherson Northington (Dave), David Ray McPherson (Micki), Mark McPherson, and Amy McPherson Bramblett (Mike). She was a devoted grandmother to 10 grandchildren: Ryan (Emily), Wesley (Emily), Kate (Brandon), Ben (Marybeth), Erin, Coleman, Claire, Bradley (Anna Elise), Geoffrey (Taryn), and Jay (Madison). She was also blessed with 11 great-grandchildren: Grady, John Wyatt, Mary, Will, Elaina, Millie, Ford, Paulie Faye, Janie, Collins, and Lydia, all of whom brought her immeasurable joy.

Elaine will be remembered for her quiet strength, her deep love for her family, and the peace she found in the simple beauty of life. Her legacy of faith, love, and kindness will continue to inspire all who knew her.

The family would like to thank Elaine’s wonderful caregivers: Yolawnde Green, Bianca Robinson, Venyette Wren, and Charita Perry.

Elaine’s grandsons will all serve as pallbearers.

A graveside service to celebrate her life will be held on Thursday, October 16, at 11:00 a.m. at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home and Gardens in Trussville, Alabama. If you prefer to make a donation in lieu of flowers, please donate to Children’s Hospital of Alabama in Elaine’s honor.