82 year-old Ragland woman serves those in need on wedding day

An 82 year-old East Alabama woman has dedicated her life to helping others. Many call Eleanor Clinkscales a superstar senior citizen for her commitment to serving the community. But, on Saturday she wore a very different and yet special title, on Saturday she was a bride.

Eleanor Clinkscales of Ragland, AL spends her days helping those in need. Not even her wedding day would be an exception. She asked her guests to donate canned goods in lieu of gifts.

“I’m more concerned that we do a really good job stocking this pantry for the winter,” explained Clinkscales when asked if she was nervous about her big day.

For the last three decades, Clinkscales has made sure low-income families in St. Clair County have food to eat and clothes on their backs. She pays extra attention to children in need so every summer she

collects schools supplies and back packs for them and collects jackets in the winter. Clinkscales makes it her priority to make sure all donations go to those who need it most. Her giving spirit is just one of the many reasons why the community adores her.

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It’s also the reason Charles Davis asked Clinkscales for her hand in marriage.

“Her kindness! She’s got a real deep feeling for people in need,” explained Davis. He is the 76 year-old groom.

Longtime acquaintances, Davis and Clinkscales reconnected last summer after 20 years. Clinkscales was a widow and Davis a widower.

“When you lose somebody, it was rough on me, and she helped me get through it,” added Davis.

That reunion was the start of a lifelong commitment to each other. Months later Davis got down on one knee and popped the question. How could Eleanor say no?

“I’m mean really! Awe, he’s a doll honey!” added Clinkscales. She never thought she would find love again.

“I’m very lucky to have him,” she added.

On Saturday Clinkscales and Davis tied the knot inside of the Refuge Baptist Church in Ragland. Family and friends were there to help them celebrate and to see Clinkscales have a well-deserved special day.

“Very fun loving woman to be around! She’s always got a smile on her face and always there. Just lifting you and brightening your day up is what she does,” described Pastor Jason Tolbert who married the two.

Clinkscales says she has no plans on slowing down. After their honeymoon, the newlyweds will start a collection drive for winter jackets. All donations will go to the Head Start program that benefits children in need in St. Clair County. Clinkscales says their goal is to collect 220 jackets. They need boys and girls jackets in sizes four, five and six.

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