Rlee McClain, 91, of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her loving family, on December 29, 2025. Born in Greenville, AL, she was the daughter of the late Irving and Rosie (Harris) Drake, and the beloved wife of the late Cartha R. McClain.

After attending school in Greenville, Rlee and her family moved to Niagara Falls, where she dedicated her life to caring for others. She worked as a Nurse's Aide at Mt. St. Mary's Hospital for 15 years and later at Schoelkopf Health Center for 29 years. Her compassion was more than a career; it was the heart of who she was.

Rlee was known for offering comfort, a listening ear, and a warm meal to anyone who needed it.

Rlee was a dedicated Jehovah's Witness and enjoyed spending time teaching others about her loving God and his promises for the future.

She expressed her love through cooking, especially soul food. Her specialty was her famous fried chicken, though she also enjoyed baking cakes and pastries. Her home was a place where everyone was welcome to "grab a plate," and she made sure guests felt embraced not only by her food but by her time, generosity, and affection. Family was the center of her world, and she naturally became an unofficial mother and grandmother to many who came into her life. She was lovingly known by many as "Sweetness."

Rlee loved music—especially James Brown and B.B. King—but above all, she loved people. Her warmth, generosity, and gracious spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Rlee is survived by her children, Shirley (Jeffrey) Tucker, Arthur R. McClain, and Charnaye (Ron Lopez) Bosley; her siblings, Calvin Lawson, Irene (James) Love, and Mattie (late JC) Mathews; nine grandchildren; many great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.  In addition to her parents and husband, she was predeceased by her son, Maurice R. McClain; her siblings Willie B. (Gennie R.) Drake, Johnny B. Drake, Joe Z. Drake, Jimmy D. Drake, Ollie B. Cox, Cora Lee (late Clarence) Cook and one grandson, Marcello McClain.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 31, 2026 at 1 PM at Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, 7375 Nash Rd., North Tonawanda, NY 14120. Private interment in Oakwood Cemetery, Niagara Falls, NY, will be held at the convenience of the family.  Arrangements are under the care of M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel. Please visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com to leave online condolences.