Donald "Donnie" Dean McClendon, 69, of Benton, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, September 11, 2024 after a lengthy battle with cancer. Donnie was born in Benton on May 30, 1955. He was one of five children born to the late RC and Lavern McClendon. Donnie married the love of his life Dottie McClendon on July 1, 1976. Donnie and Dottie are members of Spring Creek Baptist Church. Donnie retired from Arkla Gas in 2017 after 38 years of service, where he made lifelong friends. Donnie was a loving husband, Daddy and Pappy (his favorite title). He loved his family and friends very much.

Donnie is preceded in death by his parents, RC and Lavern McClendon, his son, Dustin Blake McClendon and brother, Harold "Hub" McClendon.

Donnie is survived by his wife of 48 years, Dottie McClendon, daughter, Tammie (Chad) Zuber, his three grandchildren, Avery Grace, Brynlee Faith and Boone Rustin Zuber. Also, by his three sisters, Pat (Sam) Wright, Shelia (Donnie) Turner, Normalene (GT) Cobb and sister-in-law, Carylon McClendon, along with many special nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews and great-great nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be 6:00 to 8:00 PM Friday at Ashby Funeral home.

Church services will be 10:00 AM Saturday at Spring Creek Baptist Church. Minister will be Bro Terry Parrish.