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Obituary For John W. McLendon
John McLendon, 81, passed on Tuesday, October 28, 2025 in Columbus, GA.
Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. EST on Friday, November 7, 2025 at New Providence Baptist Church, 5227 14th Ave, Columbus, GA with Pastor Martai D. McCullough, officiating, Rev. James A. Platt, M. Div., Pastor, Eulogist. Burial at Parkhill Cemetery, 4161 Macon Rd, Columbus, GA. Public viewing is 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST on Thursday, November 6, 2025.
Reflections of Life
I was born on April 12, 1944 in Ozark (Skipperville), Alabama, to the late Willie Fred and Willie Bell McLendon. I was the Sixth of eight children. Preceding me in death were my siblings Willie Fred Jr. Cody Andrew, Alex Zack (A.Z.), Mac, Larry, and Quida F. Wright.
I was a dedicated member of Allen Temple A.M.E. Church in Phenix City, Alabama. Throughout the years, I faithfully served in many capabilities, including Sunday School Superintendent, Senior Class Teacher, member of the Steward and Trustee Boards, Usher Board, Choir and Young Peoples Department. I also served the Phenix City, Tuskegee and Ninth Episcopal District in various roles.
I proudly served my country for three years, attaining the rank of Sergeant E-5. My proudest assignment was serving as a Drill Sergeant Instructor. I am a Vietnam War Veteran and was honored to receive many decorated awards, later becoming a Disabled Veteran.
I faithfully served as a member of the Executive Social Club.
Following my military service, I worked at the Michelin Tire Plant in Opelika, Alabama, where I retired after 34 years of dedicated service. During my career, I worked as a tire builder, builder instructor, quality control inspector and supervisor.
I will live forever in the hearts of my beloved wife, Anita D Kindred--McLendon, with whom I shared 30 years of marriage, 46 years of love.
I leave to cherish my memory, one sister, Linda G Smith; three sons, Demetrius L. McLendon, John W. (Areatha) McLendon Jr. and Dexter Y. (Shandrel) McLendon; one daughter, Terri L., (Paul) Pass; three sisters-in-law, Everlene McLendon, Jamesetta McClendon and Barbara Kindred; one brother-in-law, Teddy Kindred; eight grandchildren; six grandsons, JaCory McGruder, John McLendon, III, Dexter McLendon, Samuel McLendon, Travion McLendon and Issac McLendon; two granddaughters, Lamesha McLendon and Ayanna Pass; one great-grandson, KyMani Pass; two great granddaughters, Terri McGruder and Sanora Carson, a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
Sometimes in life, people enter your journey and bring joy and comfort. For me, that blessing came through Donna Ashley, whom I love as my own daughter. Thank you for caring so deeply for me.
Love you-see you again!
To my god granddaughter, Sβvanah, McGhee (βKIDDIE POOHβ), you have been with Poppa and Granny since the day you were born. Words cannot express the joy you have brought to my life. Now that you are a young adult in college, I pray for your success. Whatever you do, keep God and my advice in your life. You can make it.
Love you, See ya! -Poppa.
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Sending prayers and condolences to the family during this difficult time of grief
Miss and Love you, John, my brother. Your baby sister Gail. Get your rest.
We offer our sincere condolences to the family of John McLendon. Dr. and Mrs. Thomas D. Moffett
My sincere condolences and prayers are with the family and friends. May God bring you comfort and peace during this difficult time.
My Sincere Heartfelt Condolences π Nita , you have truly been in my Prayers. πποΈβ€οΈ O'Quita & QuanTorria
We are deeply saddened by the passing of our dear cousin John. He touched so many lives, we will miss him dearly, but his spirit and the memories we shared will always remain in our hearts.
With love and deepest sympathy, Hildreth Stuckey and family!
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Demetrius, our heartfelt condolences at this time. May the memories of your father remind you he is only a thought away and is forever in your heart. Our prayers are with you and the family. May God bless you all with His peace and comfort. Godson, we love you much.
We love and miss uncle John, our deepest condolences to the Mclendon family. May God bless and keep you all.
Blessings
Mr. John was a kind and thoughtful man who truly lived his faith. His quiet strength, deep spirituality, and dedication to his family, community, and church were an inspiration to all who knew him. May his legacy of love and service continue to shine through the many lives he touched. Praying for comfort and peace for you and your family during this difficult time.
My deepest condolences and prayers and love. Rest in peace my brother.
With deepest condolences and prayers to the McLendon Family
I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Uncle John, praying for our family as we remember him. Love and blessings to all who love and care for him.
-Tiffanie Chiles-Mitchell Great niece (Ouida's granddaughter)
Mr. John was such a quiet, giving and loving man whom my husband Larry and I admired. We appreciated all the mentorship Mr. John displayed, by showing us by example how the next generation of men should act, look and love their wives and families unconditionally.
To the family of John McLendon each of you have our deepest condolences and prayers during your time of bereavement. John (aka "slave" as him as my mom called one another) was such a beautiful person inside and out. I am glad that you and mom got the opportunity to sit down to eat and fellowship with one another a couple of weeks ago. He will be truly missed by many. We love you all like family....praying for comfort and strength. Kesiue L. Lewis-Reese & Claudia Mae Lewis (slave)& Family
Praying for the family π
Our sincerest condolences to you and your family Deacon Mac on the loss of your father. May the Lord give you all comfort and strength during this time of bereavement. With love, Mari & Leroy Smith, and family
My Condolences and Prayers to the McLendon family. God bless you all during this difficult time. Betty Kimbrough and Family
To my McLendon family,
Uncle John will be missed. I will treasure all the beautiful memories in my heart. Love you. ππ
Sending Condolences to The McLendon Family. and may John soul rest in peace. We are praying for you all. From the Nelams Family.
πΉSending healing prayers and comfort to John's family from his Frederick Douglass neighbors and friends.
π Rest Peacefully π
My condolences and prayers with The family ππ½ππ½ππ½!! John was a brother a brother to me.Truly will be missed but never forgotten, so much love for you John β€οΈβ€οΈ!!! Victoria
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.
