Tony C. McClendon

Tony C. McClendon was born on April 17, 1957 to the union of Thomas McClendon, Sr. and Thelma McClendon in Cincinnati, Ohio. Tony was the second oldest of six siblings. Tony was preceded in death by his parents; his oldest brother, Thomas McClendon, Jr.; and his beloved grandson, Amir Jordan.

Tony and Paula McClendon united in matrimony on February 16, 1985. They had three children: Twana, Antoine and Shenee. Tony and Paula shared 48 years together. We were able to build a legacy that includes three children, 12 grandkids and 12 great-grandkids. The grandkids knew him as “Papa”.

Tony attended Cincinnati Public Schools. He graduated from Hughes High School after dropping out, but later obtaining his high school diploma in 1985. It was a great achievement for him. He served in The United States Army Reserve in 1975.

Tony answered the call of Jesus in 1992. Tony joined and was baptized at Peace Baptist Church. He received training as an usher and continued to be a door keeper for the Lord until his death. He loved meeting and greeting people. He also served with the van ministry. This year, he became a volunteer with Love in Action Food Pantry. He was able to assist with the church’s ministry of providing food for the community.

He retired from the City of Cincinnati in 2007, after 28 years of service. Tony’s career was as a Valve Operator with Cincinnati Water Works, but he also worked with Metropolitan Sewer District as a truck driver. After retiring, Tony worked several other jobs. Tony’s longest part-time job was with The Compass Group at Xavier University Dining Services. He was employed with The Compass Group for 10 years. He also worked with Bro. Leroy as a parking lot security guard, until the pandemic impacted the church.

Tony hobbies included: fishing, gardening, music, grilling and playing dominos. Whenever he was able, he would travel to Maumee to go fishing and bring back fifty or more fish in a day. Tony’s favorite fishing joke was the person that had the longest arm could brag about catching the largest fish. He was able to pass his passion for fishing to Amir. If you visit our home during a family event, you will encounter Tony on the piano. He would always play “Ribbon in the Sky” or “Falling in Love with Jesus”. When you pass our house, you will see the beautiful flowers in the yard and on the porch. I want you to know that Tony spent hours devoting his time and labor of love to make sure his plants thrive.

Tony had a special gift for connecting with the elderly. He enjoyed talking and spending time with seniors. This ministry allowed him to develop a special relationship with the late Rev. Douglas Motley, Sr., Fannie E. Motley and their family, along with other seniors in the community. He would assist them in any way he could. It was just a part of his kindhearted and easygoing personality.

He leaves to cherish his memory: his wife, Paula McClendon; his children, Twana Wynn Hicks (Robert), Antoine McClendon (Tameca) and Shenee McClendon; his siblings, Theresa Girton (Todd), Ella R. Holloway (Don), Aaron Hill, Mary Ann McClendon, Kerry McClendon and Luther McClendon; his 12 grandkids, 12 great-grandkids and a host other relatives and friends.

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