Marie Yancey

Essie Marie McLain was born in Alto, Texas on February 25, 1926, to Essie McLain and Lorena Pitts. In December of 1941, she married the love of her life, Clyde Yancey, and soon after moved to Beaumont, Texas, where she made her home for the rest of her long and full life.

She was preceded in death by her husband Clyde, her son Michael Yancey, her granddaughter Christi Yancey, and her brothers James and Ed McLain.

She leaves behind a family who loved her deeply. She is survived by her granddaughter Amanda, Amanda’s husband Bradley Hudson, and her two great‑grandchildren, Henry and Vivian Hudson, who brought her so much joy. She is also survived by her brother Larry McLain (Necia), her niece Susan Grist (Steve), and her nephews Ron McLain (Catherine) and Richard McLain. She cherished her many grand‑nieces and grand‑nephews, each of whom held a special place in her heart. She is also lovingly remembered by her daughter‑in‑law, Janet Winger Yancey Benckenstein.

Life Reflections for the Memorial Program

A Life Full of Joy, Service, and Spirit

She lived her century surrounded by many friends and family. Anyone who spent even a few minutes with her could feel it — that lively, curious, joyful energy that made her such a memorable presence. She was the kind of woman who didn’t just move through life; she participated with a generosity that touched everyone around her.

Her faith was a steady anchor. As a devoted member of Beaumont’s First Baptist Church, she poured her heart into her church family and found strength, purpose, and community there. Her service extended far beyond Sunday mornings. For 33 years, she gave her time to the Baptist Hospital Auxiliary, offering comfort, kindness, and a warm smile to countless patients and families. It was simply who she was — someone who showed up, someone who cared.

She also loved being part of groups that brought people together. Whether tending to beauty and growth with the Minglewood Garden Club, sharing sisterhood through Beta Sigma Phi Sorority, or honoring heritage and history with the Daughters of the American Revolution, she embraced every opportunity to connect, and contribute. These communities enriched her life, and she enriched them right back.

What people will remember most, though, is her spirit — vivacious, engaged, and wonderfully present. She laughed easily, loved deeply, and carried herself with a grace that came from knowing who she was and what mattered to her. She lived 100 years, but more importantly, she lived them well.