"Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever." Psalm 23:6

 

 

Olivia Lois Porter McClain “Gonga”

 

     Olivia Lois Porter McClain, affectionately known as “Gonga,” was born on December 31, 1948, in Galveston, Texas, to the late Harry and Lois Porter. She attended Booker T. Washington Elementary and Goliad Jr. High before graduating proudly with the Central High School Bearcats, Class of 1967.

     That same year, Olivia married her high school sweetheart, the late Jimmie R. McClain Sr. Their union was blessed with two children, and together they built 22 years of love and family before his untimely passing.

     Faith guided Olivia's life from the very beginning. She was baptized at First Union Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. James l. Jackson and remained a faithful member for more than 65 plus years. She sang in various choirs, served on the hospitality committee, and later lent her voice to the City- Wide Gospel Chorale, a community choir founded by her younger brother, the late Louis Porter.

     Olivia dedicated 35 years of service to the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) before retiring in 2003. Retirement didn't end her work of helping others—she continued to mentor and uplift young people at the Yeager Youth Crisis Center, where many came to know her lovingly as “mama.”

     Known for her warm spirit and outgoing personality, Olivia never met a stranger. Her kindness created lifelong friendships and touched countless lives across Galveston.

     Above all, she was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was a steady source of strength, encouragement, and love—always ready with support, a listening ear, or wise words. The bond she shared with her grandchildren was immeasurable and left a legacy of love that cannot be replaced.

     Even while facing her own health challenges, Olivia cared deeply for others, checking in with friends and loved ones to ensure their well-being. The family extends heartfelt thanks to her dear friends Rena Leigh, Carol Chachree, Audrey Jones, Yvonne Warren, Dorothy “Dot” Woodland, Beverly Lewis, and James Broussard; to her neighbors Michael and Felicia Patterson for their constant support of Olivia and TJ; and to Dr. Paul Kumpa, Dr. Thomas Blackwell, and their dedicated staffs for their compassionate care.

     On Thursday, September 4, 2025, Olivia peacefully departed this life, surrounded by family and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jimmie R. McClain Sr.; her parents, Harry and Lois Porter; her brother, Louis Porter; her bonus mom, Clara Kirks (“Grand”); and her beloved Poppa, Jordan Boxley-Turner.

     She leaves to cherish her memory, her daughter, Tracy L. Perkins; son, Jimmie R. McClain Jr. (Jackie); son-in-law, Tracey Perkins; and her faithful dog, TJ. Her grandchildren, Trey L. Perkins, Trent L. Perkins, Willie D. Francois III (Dalijah), and Michaela Randle; and her great- grandchildren, Je’Niyah N. Hopkins, Adrielle L. Gould, Jersey Carter, Willie D. Francois IV, and Jordan A. Francios. She is also survived by sisters Sandra Porter and Evelyn Boxley; brother Harry J. Porter Jr. (Nancy); bonus brother Larry York; goddaughter Endia J. Boxley; sister-in-law Annie B. Walker; special nieces Ladenia Boxley (her “personal transportation chief”) and Helen Jenkins (her “personal hairstylist”); bonus sons Eddie Jessie and William Boclair(Woo); and bonus sisters Deborah Hatter, Rose King, and Brenda Henderson. In addition, a host of nieces, nephews, extended family—by blood, by marriage, and by friendship—each holding a special place in her heart.

Olivia's life was a blessing to all who knew her. She will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and eternally loved.