Obituary of Irene Delores McClendon

Irene D. McClendon, 96, was summoned to be with her Lord and Savior in heaven on March 28, 2020. She was born on August 25, 1923 in Vienna, Georgia, daughter of the late Johnnie Lee Lewis and Ammer Lee Lily. She was raised in a loving home purchased by her father with her seven siblings. Irene attended and graduated from Vienna Industrial High School. Her father was on the Board of Trustees that established the very school she attended. In 1944 Irene married Robert McClendon. It was through this marriage and his career in the Air Force that brought her to Rome, NY. Irene’s two greatest loves were the Lord and her family. She was a giving person who did the Lord’s work by opening her heart and aided anyone in need. Irene believed family was not defined by blood. She was called “Mom” or “Miss Irene” by many people over the years. Irene loved to cook. She was blessed with the ability to turn the simplest ingredients into a delicious meal. A talent she attributed to her parents. In addition to cooking and church activities, Irene enjoyed bowling, visiting her family in Georgia, and the company of close friends. She had been a faithful member of Grace Union AME since 1961. She was part of the choir and enjoyed singing as well as a Stewart. Irene worked at Jet Cleaners in Rome for several years. Later, she worked at Rome City Hospital for many years as a certified nursing assistant. Then, Irene went on to work for Mr. & Mrs. Rossi, owners of Stonehedge Nursing Home. From there she was offered a position to assist the Rossi family in the management of their household until her retirement in 1988. She was loved and respected by the Rossi family. Irene is survived by her children Melva (Anthony), Robert, Roderick (Toni), and Henry. 8 grandchildren; Brian, Joseph, Tiffany, Laura, Ian, Roderick “Rory,” Marcus, Dakota. 7 great grandchildren; Arianna, Marcellus, Nevaeh, Xena, Ronyn, Zahir, and Faith Irene. Many nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews in both New York and Georgia. When in Georgia they treated her with all the love and respect afforded to the Matriarch of the family. They loved to cater to “Aunt Ruthie.” Irene will be missed by her best friend, Marion Robertson and her family, Stan Williams and his family who never forgot to send flowers on her birthday and Mother’s Day, and Mark and Janie Rossi. Also, Irene was cherished by her church family. Irene loved them dearly. Irene was predeceased by her parents and all of her siblings; Johnnie Lee, Morris, James “Buddy,” Phillene, Marion “Cope,” Thelma, and Fred. The family of Irene would like to thank the entire staff of the Grand Nursing Facility, especially the staff of Wing 2. In particular Lois, Mary, Justina, GiGi, Ayanna and Katie. You all did a great job caring for our mother. Your kindness and professionalism was noted and appreciated. She often stated how kind each of you were. Thank you Memorial contributions may be made in the name of Irene McClendon to Grace Union AME Church, 606 Woodland Ave, Rome N.Y. 13440. Due to the pandemic funeral services are private. A private funeral service will be held at Grace Union AME Church. A celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Arrangements by Strong-Burns & Sprock Funeral Home 7751 Merrick Road, Rome.