Kenneth Poe Funeral Services

August 25, 2025

CHARLOTTE - Edna McLain Bacon, 86, of Charlotte, NC, passed away after a brief illness on August 25, 2025.

Born on April 21, 1939, in Marietta, Georgia, she was the daughter of Edna (Strauss) and Milton Eccles McLain, Sr. Edna grew up in Buford, Georgia, alongside her sister Ann Smith and brothers Ken McLain and the late Milton McLain.

She graduated from Buford High School in 1957 and went on to earn a BA in Chemistry from Agnes Scott College in 1961. She later returned to Agnes Scott to complete a BA in Art in 1978. In her early fifties, driven by her love of learning and a desire to help others, she pursued graduate study—earning an MA in Art Therapy from Vermont College in 1991 and an MA in Psychology from West Georgia College in 1995. For Edna, going back to school later in life was a joyful reinvention, a reflection of her belief that curiosity and growth were lifelong pursuits.

In 1961, she married Rev. Stephen Allan Bacon, with whom she shared 60 years of marriage until his passing in 2022. Together they built a family filled with love and laughter. She is survived by her children Allan Bacon of Brooklyn, NY (Gillian Thomas), Bruce Bacon (Alex) of Charlotte, NC, and Doug Bacon (Julie) of Charlotte, NC; and by her beloved grandchildren Erin Bacon (Ethan Cohen), Meg Bacon (Henderson Button), Troy Bacon, Tyler Bacon, Wilson Bacon, Phelps Bacon, and Mac Bacon. She is also survived by her sister Ann Smith, brother Ken McLain, and numerous nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, and grand-nephews. She was preceded in death by her brother Milton McLain and her sister-in-law Deborah Mae Owens.

Edna was a licensed art therapist in Atlanta, where she worked with clients of all ages. She found great fulfillment in using art to help others heal and grow.

Her creativity was boundless. She owned and operated a pottery business beginning in 1979, crafting functional stoneware that was treasured by many. She also served as a docent at the Carlos Museum in Atlanta, where she shared her love of art with others. At Central Presbyterian Church in Atlanta, she treasured being a member of the church’s choir.

She adored her family, especially her grandchildren, and delighted in time together at the family’s lake house, annual beach trips, and holiday gatherings. She cherished lifelong friendships, many of which began through chance encounters while traveling the world, and she had a gift for turning those encounters into lasting relationships. She traveled to six continents, loved cooking, and was a voracious reader. Those who knew her will remember not only her encouragement and curiosity but also her warmth, humor, and unforgettable laugh.

After many years in Atlanta, Edna and Steve relocated to Charlotte in 2021 to be closer to family. They enjoyed their years at The Sharon at SouthPark and the friendships they made there.

A service celebrating her life will be held at Covenant Presbyterian Church in Charlotte, NC, on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at 11 a.m. The family will also host a reception for family and friends on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at 3:30 p.m. at Central Presbyterian Church in Atlanta, Georgia.

The Bacon family is deeply appreciative of the wonderful care provided to Edna by The Sharon’s Wellness Center CNA team and the staff of VIA Health Partners, who helped make her last weeks comfortable and peaceful.

Memorials may be offered in Edna’s memory to Central Presbyterian Church, 201 Washington Street SW, Atlanta, GA 30303, The Sharon at SouthPark, 5100 Sharon Road, Charlotte, NC 28210 or a charity of the donor’s choice.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.