Mother Merlene Tucker-Hollins

Mother Merlene Hollins, affectionately known as "Muh". She was born on March 14, 1929, in Morgan County, Alabama.  She was born the eldest daughter born to Viola Hurth-Tucker and Emmitt Tucker who both preceded her in death.

Mother Hollins confessed Christ at the tender age of 10. She was baptized and joined Springhill Missionary Baptist Church under the Rev. Nathan Nelson. She later joined Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Jessie Little (where she served and as musician for more than 46 years). She eventually became a devoted member of Emmanuel "The Connection" under the leadership of Dr. Karockas Watkins. While serving at Emmanuel, Mother Hollins was blessed with the opportunity to mentor her own grandchildren. She served as the Church's Musician, Intercessor, Head Of The Mother's Ministry and in many other capacities.

She was an anointed vessel of God who began playing the piano at the age of 8 without ever taking a piano lesson. Mother Hollins was one of the first African American Nurses to work at Baugh and Wiley Hospital in Decatur, Alabama. She was also gifted in many areas. She worked at the Boys and Girls Club of Decatur, Alabama And  for Dr. James and Ann Wiley who she shared a very close bond.

Mother Hollins had a love for God that expanded beyond the walls of the church. Possessing a servant's heart, the scope of her outreach ministry touched many lives. She fed and nurtured a multitude of aging and homebound until her courageous battle with her own. Her passion for cooking was like none other; she enjoyed having Sunday meals with family, friends, ministers and the community.

Mother Hollins married Willie Clack, Jr., who preceded  her in death. In that union, they had 5 children. A Daughter: Durlene Clack-Bentford and A Son: Clyde Clack preceded her in death. She married William Hollins who preceded her in death.

She transitioned this life on April 1, 2018 surrounded by her family and friends.

Mother Hollins leaves to cherish her memories 2 Daughters: Linda Kirk of Douglasville, Ga. Hazel (Noah) Boyett of Decatur, Alabama. 1 Son: Rickey Clack of Birmingham, Alabama. She leaves 4 Sisters: Carrie Sykes of Sacramento, Ca. Annie Brundidge, Janice Tucker, Patricia Peoples all of Chattanooga, Tenn. She also leaves A Special Sister-In-Law: Louvenia Pickett of Pulaski, Tenn. She was beloved by a host of surviving Grandchildren. Great grandchildren. Great-Great Grandchildren, Nieces, Nephews other relatives and friends.

In Memoriam Appreciation... We do not take it lightly that you have entrusted your loved one to us. We are confident and sincerely pray that our services have been satisfactory and comforting. We pray GOD bestows a blessing on each of you. Most Respectfully, Sharpley Funeral Home.

The family of Merlene Tucker Hollins extends heartfelt gratitude to all our many friends for our expression of love and support. Your prayers, words of encouragement, visits and all acts of kindness have truly been a blessing to us. Indeed, this has brought us comfort in celebrating the life of one whom we loved so dearly. Thank you for joining us as we reflect upon the joy and meaning of life that Mother Merlene brought into our lives.

Under the directing of Sharpley Funeral Home. Funeral will be held Friday, April 6, 2018 at 12:00pm at Westside Baptist Church (located at 503 10th Ave NW. Decatur, Alabama 35601). Burial in Calvary Memorial Gardens. The body will be in church 1 hr., before the services.

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