William Lester "Bill" McClelland

Rev. Dr. William "Bill" Lester McClelland, 99, passed away Tuesday, June 11, 2024. He was born August 25, 1924, in San Diego, CA to the late Lester W. and Mildred Blews McClelland. He graduated from New Castle Senior High School in 1941 with diplomas in Academic and Technical. He began to study at Oberlin Conservatory of Music in 1942, which is the same year that he enlisted in the Army Air Corps Aviation Cadets, Pilot training. Bill served his country and protected our freedom in the United States Army Air Corps during World War II. He flew his B-24 Liberator with the 491st Bombardment Group.
After his release from the military, he returned to college to prepare for Christian ministry in the UPCNA. He attended Westminster College in Pennsylvania from 1945-1948 and Pittsburgh-Xenia Theological Seminary from 1948-1951. He was ordained in May 1951 by Beaver Valley Presbytery. He started teaching as the Professor of Religion at Muskingum College in 1956. He took some time off in 1966 to study at Fitzwilliam College, University of Cambridge in England and returned to Muskingum College in 1983, where he taught until his retirement in 1989.
Bill will be remembered for his character – a man who was known for his kindness and wisdom. Beyond his personable nature, Bill left a mark in the world with his successful career as a Professor Emeritus for Muskingum College. His dedication and integrity set him apart, and his contributions to his field will continue to inspire future generations.
He is survived by his friend and caregiver Chasity Cramer; her daughters: Ellie and Emma; and two cats: Lady Stella and King James.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his dog Bonnie Dundee.
Donations may be made to the Animal Shelter Society, 1430 Newark Rd., Zanesville, OH 43701; VFW Post #1058, 1318 Putnam Ave., Zanesville, OH 43701; or American Legion Post #29, 27 S. Third St., Zanesville, OH 43701.
Calling hours will be from 1 to 3PM, Tuesday, June 18 at College Drive Presbyterian Church, 2 East High Street, New Concord. The funeral service will begin at 3PM with Pastor Keith Taylor officiating. Burial will follow in New Concord Cemetery with full military honors.
THE SNOUFFER FUNERAL HOME, 1150 WEST MILITARY ROAD, ZANESVILLE, has the distinct honor of serving family.
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