Steve Franklin McClendon was born in Memphis, Tennessee, on September 23, 1950. He lived in Caruthersville, Missouri, before moving to Dawson Springs, Kentucky. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, at his home in Dawson Springs, Kentucky, on March 12, 2025. He was 74 years of age.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Norma Palmer, father, Paul McClendon, and two sisters, Pamela Gibson and Diana Dyer.

Steve was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was raised Catholic. He served in the United States Army from 1969 until 1972, attaining the rank of sergeant of the 11th Armored Cavalry, K-Troop. He also served in the Army National Guard from 1972 until 1974. He was a member of the VFW and American Legion. He served as a volunteer for the VA as a Pier Support Specialist for soldiers with PTSD. He also helped soldiers obtain their disability benefits. He enjoyed being part of the Honor Guard and speaking at various schools for Veterans Day. He also loved spending time with his family and friends.

He leaves the following behind to cherish his memory:

Wife of 53 years: Virginia McClendon of Dawson Springs, KY.

4 Children: Steve F. (Alicia) McClendon, Jr. of Dawson Springs, KY.

Bryan S. (Tammy) McClendon of Campbell, MO.

Wendy L. Brodie (JR Boyet) of Campbell, MO.

Shannon Hail of Battletown, KY.

6 Grandchildren: Cody, Courtney, Alyssa, Christopher, Kye, and Dakota

2 Great Grandchildren: Ryker, Amiyah, Weston, Easton and Ashtyn

2 Sisters: Margaret Welch of Hayti, MO.

Betty Perkins of Doniphan, MO.

2 Brothers: Rick Hardin of Caruthersville, MO.

James Dyer of Caruthersville, MO.

And a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held Monday, March 17, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at the John W. German Funeral Home in Hayti, MO. with Brother Doug Wahls officiating. Burial with Military Honors was held in Woodlawn Cemetery in Hayti, MO. Pallbearers were Stetson Hawk, Tommy Hood, William White, Chris Phelps, Jason Miller, and Mike Brazier.

John W. German Funeral Home of Hayti in charge of services.