Mrs. Erna Celestine McRae

May 21, 1936 - February 16, 2022

Erna entered into the Lord's kingdom on Wednesday, February 16, 2022 peacefully in her home. Erna was born on May 21, 1936 in Guyana, South America and was the only child to Cyril and Christina Gomes. A few months before her 20 birthday, Erna married her lifelong partner, Ignatius McRae on January 30th, 1955 and together they have 7 children, 14 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren. Erna dedicated her life to taking care of her family as a stay at home mother. She was always patient, the peacemaker and would welcome anyone into her home. Her staple recipes included the best homemade potato salad and her famous sweet potato pie. In 1992, she moved to the United States with her husband where she eventually worked on the Fort Jackson army base as a cashier at Burger King. She was a devoted Catholic and an involved member of St John Neumann Catholic Church, where she sang in the choir. Her voice stood out amongst many, as she was always known to sing the loudest. Erna was short in stature with a strong personality. She was intelligent and often enjoyed reading and completing crossword puzzles. She was always known for her honest feedback and her sense of humor. She taught us to never take life too seriously, always remain humble, to not waste time in conflict and remember to take time to throw your head back and laugh a little. She was an incredible mother and grandmother. She served as the peacemaker and glue of the family. She led our family with her faith and would remind us to take time to pray and show gratitude for all the Lord had provided. Psalms 23:1-4 reads: The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; He leads me beside peaceful streams. He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, Bringing honor to his name. Even when I walk Through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, For you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff Protect and comfort me. (New Living Translation, Ps. 23:1-4) Erna was a true disciple of God with a life full of abundance. We know she will rejoice being in the presence of the Lord. Her memory will live on and her morals will remain engraved in us, as we go on to honor the life she created for us. We pray for her as she embarks on her eternal rest being reunited with her husband and loved ones. We thank her, we will miss her, and we will always love her. As we say our final goodbye, we must recite her famous quote, “Go with the Lord”. This service will be streamed via zoom. Please use the link to view services: Palmer Memorial Chapel - Columbia is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting. Topic: Erna McRae Time: Feb 24, 2022 12:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada) Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88597044842?pwd=SEVBZld2cGtlV0cwRjB3WUcvcG1YZz09