Adolphous "Doc" McClendon

Adolphous "Doc" McClendon, a great and honorable man, transitioned peacefully on the morning of August 21, 2025. He was born in Tifton, GA on August 15, 1949 through the union of Mr. Willie C. McClendon and Mrs. Zerrie Bell McClendon.
He grew up in Paterson, NJ where so many watched him grow and train to become a professional boxer, which was his life's passion since the age of 14. He began to see the fruits of his labor in 1966, when he won the Golden Gloves Featherweight Novice Title and in 1967 the Golden Gloves Open Class and the State Title. He continued to sharpen his skills, while competing in the Olympic trials, making it all the way to the semi- finals. His journey to become a professional boxer was underway and family and friends supported him at every turn.
His first professional match was a first round knockout and he went on to defeat the reigning Golden Gloves Champion and New York Golden Gloves Champion. To his credit included matches with several prize fighters. Doc always said boxing was demanding both physically and mentally. However, his commitment to his craft afforded him opportunities to travel the world and make life-long friends within the boxing arena. In 1996, in the company of proud family and close friends, Adolphous "Doc" McClendon was inducted into the NJ Boxing Hall of Fame. Doc was so humble and appreciative that his hard work and dedication had not gone unnoticed.
Doc was indeed an altruistic man. He was generous with his time, patient with others and had a heart of compassion for those in need. After fulfilling his goal as a professional boxer, it was an easy decision for him to help others on a full-time basis. Doc went on to work with the Diocese of Paterson, where he provided medical transportation to so many in need. He enjoyed his job and retired knowing his work was done with dedication and grace.
During his journey in life, Doc met and married the love of his life, Celina "Sandy" McClendon. He often said she made him the happiest man alive. Doc had no biological children. However, he left such a positive impression on his 4 nieces. He helped guide and protect them throughout their lives. He was a devoted husband, a loving son, a protective brother, a kind-hearted uncle, and a loyal friend. Doc loved his family and friends dearly. His unforgettable laugh brought joy to everyone he encountered. Adolphous also had an indelible love for art and drawing. He created masterpieces that mirrored real life objects and people. The imagery exuded a special attention to detail.
The family extends special thanks to the staff at Preakness Healthcare Center of Wayne, NJ that showed such kindness in caring for our beloved for 5 years. Although he lost his final battle with Parkinson's Dementia, he will always be a winner in the hearts and minds of those that knew and loved him.
He is preceded in death by his parents; Mr. Willie C. McClendon, Mrs. Zerrie Bell McClendon, and his wife Celina "Sandy" McClendon.
He is survived by his sister; Ms. Patricia Oguje of Paterson NJ, brother; Mr. Wardelle McClendon (Tammie Brown) of Freemansburg,PA, aunt; Evan Moody of Paterson NJ, four nieces; Jyvette Hicks (Dahryl) of Woodbury, MN, Che Callender (David) of Savage, MN, Sherisha Oguje and Taliyah Ladson both of Paterson, NJ, special friends; Eileen Herndon of Clark, NJ, Carla Forbes of Paterson, NJ, and Phil Shevack of Paterson, NJ, along with many beloved cousins, and a host of dear friends.
Please click link below for Livestream: https://www.virtualvisions.media/bragg-79 To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Adolphous, please visit our Tree Store.