Burnell Dyer Mcclain

Burnell Dyer McClain, born on June 9th, 1939 in the Ore Springs Community near
Como, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at the age of 85 on April 29, 2025. Burnell
was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who brought joy and
warmth to all who knew her. She was a faithful member of the Southside Church of
Christ for many years, and her devotion to her family and faith were the cornerstones of
her life. In the words of Helen Keller, "The best and most beautiful things in the world
cannot be seen or even touched - they must be felt with the heart," and Burnell
embodied this sentiment, touching the hearts of everyone she met.

Burnell was a dedicated worker, serving as an Administrative Secretary for the State of
Tennessee Department of Human Services until her retirement. Even after retiring, she
enjoyed gathering with her former colleagues every month, a testament to her love for
community and shared connection. At home, Burnell was a wonderful cook, always
ensuring a warm meal was waiting for those she loved. She was particularly famous for
her chocolate chess pies, a cherished family tradition that she passed on to the next
generations.

Burnell leaves behind her loving husband of over 60 years, Derl McClain, her sons Alan
McClain (Jennifer) and Britt McClain (Angela), her sister Maedell Klutts, and her
beloved grandchildren Monica Chandler (Bryan), Gabby Elkins (Brock), Claire McClain,
Merella McClain (Ben Sudzum), and Madison McClain (Noah Morgan). She was also a
proud great-grandmother to Lane, Greyson, Hayley, Emery, Hastings, and Allie Kay.
Burnell was preceded in death by her parents, Alvin and Annie Lou Dyer, and her
brothers, Marvin and Ted Dyer.

The visitation will be held at Bowlin Funeral Home, 279 West Main Street, Dresden,
Tennessee, 38225 on Sunday, May 4th, 2025, from 4:00pm until 7:00pm and Monday,
May 5th, 2025 from 10:00am until service time. The funeral service will be held in the
chapel of Bowlin Funeral Home on Monday, May 5 th , 2025 at 12pm officiated by Will
Norrid and Jeremy Northrop. Burial will follow in Sunset Cemetery in Dresden.

Bowlin Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Burnell McClain. Online
condolences can be made to the family at bowlinfuneralhome.com.