Jean Williams McLendon

Jean Williams McLendon, 85, of Robbins, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at FirstHealth Hospital in Pinehurst.

A native of Moore County, Jean was born on June 12, 1939, in Robbins, NC. She graduated from Elise High School in 1957 and attended UNC-Greensboro where she received an advanced business certificate. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education from Gardner Webb University, where she graduated magna cum laude.

Her career as a teacher was not merely a job, it was a labor of love for her and a testament to shaping the lives of her students. She brought joy and laughter everywhere she went and poured her heart and soul into her family, friends and students. She embodied the qualities of patience and compassion that left an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to have known her. She was a beacon of inspiration for her young students and a nurturing presence for her colleagues. Her commitment to fostering a love of learning was evident in every lesson she taught and every life she touched. In her thirty years of service to Moore County Schools, she made many wonderful lifelong friends.

Jean was a woman of remarkable strength and she faced every challenge with grace and dignity, always putting the needs of her family first. She was a pillar of strength for her children and a source of comfort and inspiration for all who knew her. She will be remembered for her unconditional love, unwavering faith and her gentle spirit. Her love for God was evident in all aspects of her life, guiding her actions and interactions with others.

Jean embraced her role as a mother and grandmother. She spent much of her time at ball games, dance recitals, plays and church and school programs supporting her children and grandchildren. She was happiest spending time with family.

Jean was the daughter of Gurney Baxter Williams and Theresa Wadsworth Williams of Robbins, NC.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her sisters, Faye Williams and Pat Mallard.

She is survived by her husband, Paul A. McLendon of Biscoe; sons Pete McLendon of Whispering Pines; David McLendon of Ann Arbor; daughter Deborah Maples (Jeff) of Seven Lakes; grandchildren Meghan McLendon of Whispering Pines; Mollie Maples of Charlotte, and great grandchild Isabella Lopez of Whispering Pines.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, April 6, 2025, from 2:00-2:45 pm at Cornerstone Baptist Church followed by a service to celebrate her life at 3:00 pm in the sanctuary. A short graveside service will follow at Candor Cemetery.

Memorials in her honor can be made to the American Kidney Fund at 11921 Rockville Pike Ste. 300, Rockville, MD 20852 or Cornerstone Baptist Church at 303 Lambert Rd. Biscoe, NC 27209.

Online condolences may be left at www.phillipsfh.com.

The McLendon family is being served by Phillips Funeral Home in Star.