Ada Johnsine McClurkin

A Time to be Born Ada Johnsine Hardison McClurkin began her earthly journey on August 24, 1939, the third child of the late Addie Mae Graves Hardison and Mack Hardison, Sr. of Reidsville, North Carolina. From her earliest days, she was nurtured in love and faith, a daughter destined to walk with grace and strength. A Time to Plant Ada’s roots were firmly planted in both education and faith. She attended William Alexander Elementary School #112 and Frederick Douglass High School; her truest foundation was laid at New Shiloh Baptist Church under the Pastorate of Dr. James Timothy Boddie. There she accepted Christ as her Savior and Lord, was baptized, and began a lifelong journey of devotion and service. Truly, she embodied the words of Psalm 1:3, “She shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth her fruit in her season. "Her gifts blossomed richly in ministry. In 1965, Ada united with Gillis Memorial Christian Community Church under Rev. Theodore C. Jackson, Sr., where her faith was expressed through joyful service. Her laughter was contagious, her humor uplifting, and her love for young people unwavering. She advised the Voices of Gillis and the Youth and Young Adult Mass Choir, coordinated meals for Vacation Bible School and the Christian Training Union, and sang faithfully for more than four decades in the Sanctuary and Combined Choirs. Ada lived out Psalm 100:2, “Serve the Lord with gladness; come before His presence with singing.” Ada’s leadership was evident in every season of her life. She chaired numerous Women’s Day activities at Gillis, served diligently as Treasurer and Financial Secretary, and poured her talents into the Busy Bees ministry and the Pastor’s and Minister’s Wives of the United Council of Christian Community Churches. Beyond the church walls, she also held leadership positions in the Les Moitié’s Social Club. Whether through administration or song, Ada’s devotion remained steadfast—her service a true reflection of her love for Christ and His people. Her life echoed Colossians 3:23, “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men.” Her gifts extended into the workplace as well. Ada served faithfully as an Elevator Operator at Brager Gutman’s and later worked with dedication at Wolfie's and Baum’s restaurants, in her starched white uniforms. She possessed a remarkable gift of persuasion, which she used with excellence in her employment at Dennis Marketing Group and Premier Windows and Building. In every role, Ada demonstrated her commitment to hard work, integrity, and service, living out Proverbs 31:17, “She girded her loins with strength, and strengthened her arms.” Beyond her church and professional endeavors, Ada cherished her family above all. She delighted in gatherings, especially those centered around football. A loyal fan of the Baltimore Colts and later the Ravens, she could analyze plays with the best of them. She enjoyed word search puzzles and celebrated every milestone of her loved ones, always present with encouragement, laughter, and unwavering support. A Time to Dance On June 19, 1965, Ada was united in holy matrimony to Rev. Edward Randolph McClurkin, whom she affectionately called, Raymond, and together they built a life rich with joy and companionship. Over the years they delighted in dancing, roller skating, traveling, and cheering at football games in Memorial Stadium. As Edward’s ministry at Gillis deepened, they faithfully surrendered their season tickets for the Baltimore Colts. In June 2015, Ada and Edward celebrated their golden wedding anniversary surrounded by family and friends aboard the Spirit Cruises of Baltimore. A decade later, in June 2025, they rejoiced in 60 years of marriage—a testament to enduring love. Through seasons of health challenges, they persevered in faith and devotion. Edward remained steadfast, caring tenderly for Ada during her illnesses and embodying covenant love until her earthly journey’s end. As Scripture declares, “Love beareth all things, believeth all things, hoped all things, endured all things. Love never fails” (1 Corinthians 13:7–8). Their union was a living witness to this truth, marked by perseverance, faith, and unfailing devotion. Ada’s family was the jewel of her life. She was blessed with a daughter, Julia Vanessa whose presence \ reflected Ada’s enduring love and devotion. Later, she was further blessed with a daughter, Lanette Denise, completing the circle of joy that defined her motherhood. When Rev. McClurkin was installed as Pastor of First Mount Carmel Christian Community Church in 1988, Ada stepped gracefully into leadership, guiding the Women’s Ministry with devotion and directing many memorable Women’s Day celebrations. In every role—wife, mother, sister, and servant—Ada’s gifts of faith and influence shone brightly. A Time to Die After a lengthy illness, Ada completed her earthly journey on November 26, 2025, in the comfort of her home. She exchanged her labor for reward, her song for eternal praise, and her earthly crown for a heavenly one. Even during her time of rehabilitation at Augsburg, she remained a faithful witness, speaking words that testified to her strength and unwavering spirit. She became a social leader among fellow residents, winning so many prizes from Bingo and Pokeno that she joyfully shared them with others. Her generosity extended beyond games—she lovingly crafted cloth animals, offering them as gifts to family and friends who came to visit. She carried herself with excellence in all things, ensuring that even those entrusted with her care remained attentive and diligent, staying on their p’s and q’s. Her life was marked by resilience, creativity, and a heart that delighted in blessing others. A Time to Mourn Ada’s legacy lives on in those who loved her deeply: devoted husband and exceptional caregiver, Rev. Edward R. McClurkin; daughters, Julia V. Hardison and Lanette D. McClurkin; brothers, Charles M. Hardison (Dorothy) and Mack Hardison, Jr. (Cameron); sister, Margeret M. Mitchell (preceded her in death); grandson, Bishop Jermaine N. Johnson; granddaughter, Pastor Michelle D. Johnson; great-granddaughter, Zoë Imani Johnson; daughters of the heart, Carla L. Nixon, Janine A. Hawes, Jennifer A. Hawes-Dawson, and Diamond L. Jessup; special family angels, Cynthia A. Turner and Barbara Williams; along with a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Tributes

Ada Johnsine McClurkin

August 24, 1939 - November 26, 2025