James D. "Mac" McElrath, 76, of Charleston, departed this life peacefully at his home on
Saturday, August 16, 2025, surrounded by his beloved family.

He was born on February 1, 1949, in Waynesville, North Carolina, to the late James T. and Grace
I. Wells McElrath.

Throughout life, he enjoyed many things, such as upholding the 2nd Amendment as a gun supporter. A few of his fondest memories include the many years spent with the Local Union 43, where he was a skilled pipefitter and welder, and spending countless hours with a select few of his greatest friends, Doug Lewis, Pat Brakebill, and the late Ferd Craig.

In addition to his parents, James T. and Grace I. McElrath, he was preceded in death by one sister, Brenda F. Chastain; and one niece, Shannon Green.

Left to cherish the many memories include his devout and faithful wife of 56 years, Gwen Passmore McElrath; one daughter, Jennifer (Wes) Gregory; one son, Matthew "Scott" McElrath; four grandchildren, Jessica Johnson, Garrett (Mayson) Gregory, Mekalah McElrath, and Sydni (Tyler) Randolph; two great-grandchildren, Promenade Rakestraw, and Madelyn Kate Randolph; one sister, Wynell (Leslie) Marlow, special niece Michelle (Missy) Green and several nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of friends.

A graveside committal service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, August 18, 2025, at Council Baptist Church Cemetery, with Pastor Larry Coleman officiating. Wes Gregory, Donald Smith, Ernie Taylor, Justin Harris, Josh Harris, and Will Sneed will serve as pallbearers.

There will be no public viewing.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at the "Town Hall" on the family property. Due to minimal parking at the cemetery; in lieu of attending the graveside service, the family is encouraging to attend the Celebration of Life.

Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.HigginsFunerals.com.

Arrangements are entrusted to Higgins Funeral Home of Benton.