Myrtis Marie Gardner McClelland was born to the late Maurice Gardner and Mary Ella
Allen Gardner on December 20, 1944, in Center, Texas. Myrtis married Wilbert I.
McClelland on July 24, 1965, and to this union 2 children were born, C. Anthony and
Kristi Rachelle McClelland. Myrtis was known for her zealous approach to mankind and
as a one who was willing to be of assistance to all. Myrtis had a heart for people and
loved to sing.
Myrtis was a member of the Lily of the Valley COGIC in her youth. After marriage, she
joined Mt. Zion CME Church. At Mt Zion, Myrtis participated in and spearheaded
numerous endeavors and activities within the church. Myrtis was a member of the
choir, Sunday School teacher, president of the Trustee Board, member of the
Missionary Society and the Board of Christian Education Director.
Myrtis graduated from C.H. Daniels High School in the Class of 1962. Some of her best
friends at Daniels were Clifford “Pete” Polley, Ella Mae Hall and Felton Greer. Myrtis
graduated from Butler Junior College of Tyler in 1965, receiving her associate’s degree.
She then attended Paul Quinn College in Waco, Texas. She obtained her
undergraduate degree from Stephen F. Austin in Nacogdoches, Texas and later
furthered her education, receiving two Masters’ degrees from SFA, graduating summa
cum laude both times.
Myrtis had a desire to make a difference and would often mention and offer humble
respect to her elders that made an impact on her life. She often reflected on her uncle,
James “Molly Jaw” Gardner and her great uncle, Joe Gardner. Additional reflections
were aunt, Blanche McClelland; teachers, Rubye L. Biggers and Hazel P. Walker;
Sunday School teachers and neighbors, Alberta Dock and Nettie Jones.
Myrtis loved to give back. She had a desire to help the less fortunate. She was a
member of the Shelby County Welfare Board and participated in the grocery drives
during Christmas time.
She insisted on pouring into her family and community. Myrtis was employed by Center
Independent School System for 48 plus years. Her employment ranged from secretary,
teacher’s aide to teacher. She taught many of her family members including her nieces
and nephews. Myrtis set high standards for her students and inspired them to reach
their dreams. She asked them to always whisper a prayer. Additionally, she was
employed for many years at Payne and Payne Hardware & Outdoor Store. While
working at Payne’s, Myrtis discovered a love for cookware and beautiful dishes. Myrtis’
home encapsulates that love, as it’s filled with the beautiful items she so loved. Myrtis
was the co-owner of the historic Hicks Mortuary, LLC. As an owner, Myrtis provided
families with the assurance that their loved ones would be given the utmost in care and
respect.

Myrtis battled cancer for ten years, for which she was awarded numerous recognitions
from several local churches and organizations for her unwavering courage. She was
awarded the Pillar Award, representing God, family and community in 2021. Her most
recent recognition came in October 2024, at the Annual Breast Cancer Program by
Kelly & Company.
Myrtis was loved by many. Her impact was authentic and lasting. She seemed bigger
than life because of how she utilized her time, talent and treasures to help others.
Myrtis valued relationships and spending time on the phone with family and loved ones,
such as Gayle Booth, Noretta Crosby, Norma Lister, Sue Sparks, Frankie Arnold, Alton
Biggers, Felton Greer, Levady Gillaspie, Joyce Jackson, Sandra Miller, Verna Cloudy,
Kelly Watts, and Cristy Byndom. She will be dearly missed.
Myrtis was proceeded in death by husband, Wilbert I. McClelland; her parents Maurice
and Mary Ella Gardner and two sisters, Marva Gardner and Brenda Jackson.
She is survived by her children, C. Anthony and Kristi McClelland; brothers, Rev. Billy E.
(Margie) Gardner, Thomas A. Gardner, Jerry (Cherly) Gardner and Frederick (Stella)
Gardner; sister Ester Singleton and uncle, Lucky (Wilda) Gardner as well as many
beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and former students. Last but not least, her
beloved great nieces and nephews; Jamarion “Mar-Mar” Evans, Sierra Beal, Ashley
Lister, Jalen (Keve) Hubbard, Ionnia Hubbard, LaJada Randle, Braylon Jackson,
Andrea and Damien Horton Jr.