Eula Mae Hunter- McElrath
(ROANOKE) Eula Mae Hunter- McElrath, affectionately known to many as “the biscuit lady” passed away on Nov. 10, 2025, in Roanoke, at the age of 72. Born on July 20, 1953, in Lineville, Eula was a lifelong resident of the East Alabama area. She dedicated her life to caring for others both through her professional work and her personal relationships. Her early years were shaped by the close- knit communities of Lineville and Ashland, where she would later leave a lasting impact through her work and warm spirit. Eula built a meaningful career as both a dietician and a Certified Nursing Assistant. She served the communities of Lineville, Ashland, Roanoke, and the surrounding areas with compassion and diligence.
Her culinary talents were well known throughout the region; she worked at places such as Heflin Truckstop, Amoco Store and One Stop Welch Store. It was here that she earned her beloved nickname for her unmatched skill in baking biscuits- a talent that brought comfort and joy to many. In addition to her work in food service, Eula spent many years at Clay County Nursing Home as a Certified Nursing Assistant. Her dedication to caregiving extended beyond the workplace; she had an innate ability to make others feel important and valued. Whether through a warm meal or a kind word. Eula’s presence was one of generosity and grace. Eula found joy in simple pleasures- fishing on quiet afternoons, cooking hearty meals for her loved ones, baking biscuits that became legendary in their own right, and collecting antiques that reflected her appreciation for history and craftsmanship. Her sense of Humor brightened every room she entered,and her love for family was unwavering. She received Christ at an early age and remained spiritually grounded throughout her life. Eula often attended various churches in Roanoke and Lineville, where she found fellowship and strength in faith.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Manuel and Eulene Potts Hunter; grandparents, Johnny Lee and S.L. Potts Roundtree; son; Kerry Benard Hayes; and brother; Eddie James Hunter
Eula leaves behind a loving family who will cherish her memory: husband, William McElrath; daughter, Sandra Ware (James); sons, Jerry Hayes and Willie James Hayes; sister, Lillie Hill (Andre); and devoted aunts, Ada Ware, Mary Gouch, Linda Holloway and Brenda Dukes (Joe); eight grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; six bonus children; and finally a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Public viewing will be Tuesday Nov. 18 from 11 a.m.- 7 p.m. at Central Alabama Funeral Home Chapel.
Funeral services will be Wednesday, Nov. 19 at 1 p.m. at Central Alabama Funeral Home Chapel
Internment will be at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church Cemetery in the Delta community.
Central Alabama Funeral Home, Lineville
