Margaret Estella “Chicken” Bowlds McCain, 84, of Marion, passed away at 3:57 pm on Wednesday, January 1, 2025, in Marion. She was born in Marion, Indiana, on Sunday, April 14, 1940, to Lawrence Bowlds, Sr., and Elizabeth Jane (Nukes) Bowlds.
Margaret accepted Christ at an early age and served under Rev. J.D. Williams, Rev. Bobby Jones, and Rev. Benny Powell at Greater Second Baptist Church. She was active in the church, working in the kitchen helping with funerals and special events. She sang in the gospel chorus and also served as the church custodian. Margaret was willing to help anyone in any way possible and became Mom, Grandma, and Aunt Chicken to many.
Margaret grew up in Marion and graduated from Marion High School and Marion Business College. She worked at General Tire and the VA Hospital, where she retired. She married Samuel L. McCain, who preceded her in death. Margaret was an avid bowler and loved to do crossword puzzles. She was a former member of Daughter of I.B.P.O.E. of W and once served as E Shalt Ruler of the Elks Lodge, where she was also a member.
She leaves to cherish her memories three daughters: Thelma Elizabeth “Coopie/Liz” Williams of Moreno Valley, CA; Theresa Lynn (Jesse) McClung of Indianapolis; and Mary Katherine (Henry) Lockett of Louisville, KY; two sons: Kenneth Gregory “Kemac” McCain of Lake Elsinore, CA, and Phillip Ray “Bunk” McCain of Marion; one brother, Lawrence A. “Sony Rab” (Jacklyn) Bowlds; one sister, Katherine “Kat” D. Adams of Marion; 13 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; a host of nieces and nephews; and two special friends, Linda Bobson and Annie Bryant.
In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by two sons, Michael J. McCain and Donald E. McCain; two brothers, Michael Joseph Bowlds, Sr., and Richard “Chopper” Eugene Bowlds; and three sisters, Rebecca Ann Bowlds, Carolyn Bowlds, and Aurelia LaVernia “Vernie” Jones.
The family will receive visitors from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm on Friday, January 10, 2025, at Greater Second Baptist Church, 705 W. 26th St., Marion, IN.
Immediately following the time of visitation, a service to celebrate Margaret’s life will begin at 1:00 pm with Rev. Benny Powell officiating. Burial will take place at Estates of Serenity.
Arrangements are entrusted to Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral & Cremation Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN.
Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.
