Margaret Cecelia “Cedar” McBrayer, age 71, went to be with her Lord and Savior on October 28, 2026. She was an incredible wife, mother, grandmother, G-Maw, sister, and friend. Her infectious smile, joyful spirit, and unwavering love for others will be deeply missed by all who had the blessing of knowing her.
Cedar had a special way of leaving a beautiful impression on everyone she met, especially the countless students whose lives she touched throughout her years as an educator. She was blessed to fulfill her dream of becoming a teacher, earning her bachelor's degree from Athens State University and her master's degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB).
Teaching was more than a profession to Cedar; it was a calling. She gave her students not only knowledge but also encouragement, kindness, patience, and love. Her influence extended far beyond the classroom, and the lives she touched will forever carry a piece of her.
Throughout her life, Cedar displayed extraordinary strength, particularly through her lifelong battle with Crohn’s disease. Even through the challenges and hardships she endured, she rarely, if ever, complained. She faced life with grace, courage, and a quiet strength that was an inspiration to those around her. Her life was a beautiful testimony to the goodness, faithfulness, and love of her Heavenly Father. She lived her faith, shared her blessings, and reminded those around her that love is best demonstrated through the way we treat others.
Above all else, Cedar’s greatest love was her family. Her love for her husband of 54 years, her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren was unsurpassed. She gave her love freely, her smile generously, and her encouragement without hesitation. She had a way of making people feel special, valued, and loved. If you were loved by Cedar, you were truly blessed. Her family was her heart, and the memories, lessons, laughter, and unconditional love she leaves behind will be treasured for generations.
Cedar’s legacy is not measured only by the years she lived, but by the lives she touched, the love she shared, the faith she demonstrated, and the family she cherished. Though her earthly presence will be missed beyond words, the beautiful example she set will continue to live on in everyone fortunate enough to have known her.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Donnie W. McBrayer of 54 years; her
parents, Margaret and Claude Easterwood; her parents-in-law, Willene and Peary McBrayer; her sister, Sue White; and her brothers, Charlie Easterwood and Jim Easterwood, brothers-in law, Ronnie McBrayer, Tim Rutledge, and Ronnie Patteson, sisters-in-law, Martha Easterwood, and Carol Easterwood, and nieces, Amy Easterwood and April Rutledge.
She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Candice and Jonathan Baty; her grandson and granddaughter-in-law, Ezekiel and Tiffanie (Blake) McBrayer; her grandson, Silas Baty; her great-grandson, Emilio McBrayer; and a soon-to-arrive great-granddaughter. She is also survived by her brother, Tom Easterwood, sister Iva Patterson, sisters-in-law, Genetta Easterwood, Jeanette (McBrayer) Hite, Karen (Tamer) McBrayer, and Helen (McBrayer) Rutledge, and brother-in-law, Ed White, along with numerous nieces and nephews.
Though our hearts are broken by her absence, we find comfort knowing that Cedar is healed, whole, and rejoicing in the presence of her Heavenly Father. Her beautiful smile, generous heart, and unconditional love will never be forgotten.
Until we meet again, Mom, Maw-Maw, G-Maw. You were loved beyond measure, and you
will be missed beyond words.
