Charlene Annette Spence McDonald, 70, of Hogansville, left this world on June 2, 2026, at Piedmont Newnan Hospital.

Born August 8, 1955, in Atlanta, Georgia, she was a daughter of the late Thomas Franklin Spence and the late Mary Elsie Vickery Spence. A longtime active member of Heaven Bound Church of God, Charlene’s faith was a cornerstone of her life, fueling her boundless desire to help others. Her heart was a sanctuary for those in need; and she found joy in uplifting friends, family, and strangers alike. Dedicated to her church community in Franklin, Georgia, she understood that faith blossomed in acts of care and compassion. Charlene's passions were as rich and varied as the seasons she cherished outdoors. She was happiest with dirt beneath her fingernails, tending to her garden with patience and love. Those who had the pleasure of tasting her cooking always knew they were treasured, for she had a remarkable gift for turning simple ingredients into meals that felt like a warm embrace. Her love extended beyond the home and garden to family gatherings filled with laughter and stories. She reveled in the company of her grandchildren, finding in their presence a unique joy and a vivid reminder of life’s beautiful continuity. Reading offered her quiet moments to wander through countless worlds, while cherished trips to the mountains and the beach allowed her spirit to soar amid nature’s grandeur. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Faith Cline; and siblings, Connie Sue Spence, and Michael David Spence.

Survivors include her children, Charlene Knight (Wayman), Kristina Boswell (Paul), Jessica Allen (Chris), and her fur baby, Roxanne; brother, Thomas Spence; sister, Brenda Armstrong; grandchildren, Brandon Barber, Joshua Barber (Jerling), Patience Cline, Lacey Adcock (Austin), Issac Cline, Shiane Lucas, and Madison Lucas; great-grandchildren, Ansley Cline, Dawson Barber-Ryan, Asher Barber, Navy Jane Adcock, Bo Lucas, CJ Allen, Tyler Allen, and Daniel Alllen; and several nieces and nephews.

A service to celebrate Charlene’s life will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 14, 2026, at Heaven Bound Church of God with Pastor Debbie Kendrick officiating. A time of food and fellowship will take place at the church, immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Heaven Bound Church of God, 760 Centralhatchee Pkwy, Franklin, GA 30217, in memory of Charlene.

Higgins Funeral Home Hillcrest Chapel is honored to serve the family of Charlene McDonald, please visit www.hillcrestchapelcares.com to share your memories or leave a condolence message.