July 3, 2012

Elizabeth Darden Rawls Macklin, 84, went to be with her Lord on Tuesday, July 3, 2012. She was born in Suffolk on Oct. 14, 1927 to the late Dr. David Luther and Sarah Elizabeth Davis Rawls. She loved to be known by her beloved nickname, “Ibby.” She was predeceased by her husband, Harold Hammond Macklin Jr., and her two brothers, George Davis Rawls and David Luther Rawls Jr.

Ibby was a graduate of Suffolk High School (Class of 1945) and attended Mary Baldwin College for two years. She later attended The Pan-American School in Richmond. In 1952, she married her high school sweetheart, Harold. She was a lifelong member of Suffolk Christian Church and looked forward to receiving each new issue of The Towers. She was a true Southern lady who gave generously to many charities and organizations. She was known far and wide for her beautiful handwriting and exquisitely decorated greeting cards, devoting a great deal of time meticulously preparing each card and envelope, which she loved to give to her cherished friends and family throughout the year, especially during Christmas and Easter. She had a passion for collecting stamps and coins, but the greatest joy of her life was spending time with her children. Ibby had a strong Christian spirit, and her compassion, generosity, and wonderful sense of humor were a gift to all who knew and loved her. She will be greatly missed.

She is survived by her sons, Harold H. Macklin III and David R. Macklin; her daughter, Sarah E. Macklin, all of Richmond; and a niece and five nephews.

A memorial service will be held Wednesday, Aug. 22 at noon at the Suffolk Christian Church by the Rev. Michael D. Halley, with a reception immediately following in the fellowship hall. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Suffolk Christian Church Memorial Fund or Organ Fund, P.O. Box 1457, Suffolk, VA 23439 or the Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts, 110 W. Finney Ave., Suffolk, VA 23434. R.W. Baker & Co. Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the family. Condolences may be registered at www.rwbakerfh.com.