Zelda Marie McClellan

Zelda Marie McClellan, 98, passed away peacefully on October 16, 2025, in Marble Falls, Texas. Born May 20, 1927, Zelda lived a long and meaningful life rooted in faith, family, and quiet strength.

She was known as Zelda to most, but to the many grandchildren who adored her, she was lovingly called Gran Gran. Her warmth, wisdom, and unwavering love left a lasting imprint on all who knew her, especially her family who cherished every moment spent by her side. Deeply loved, she was the steady center of her family.

Zelda shared 51 beautiful years of marriage with her devoted husband, Bernard McClellan. Together, they raised two children, Robert Kelly McClellan and Debra Denise Winter, nurturing a home filled with love and laughter. Her legacy continues through five grandchildren - Kimberly Dollander, Tina Van Gundy-Sowell, Krystle Fassauer, James McClellan, and Lisa Allen, and several great-grandchildren who brought her endless joy.

She spent her early years in Kellerville, Texas, and later moved to McLean, where she graduated as Valedictorian from McLean High School in 1944. It was during her junior year at McLean that a lifelong love story began. Zelda played the tenor saxophone in the school band, while Bernard McClellan led the drum section with his bass drum. One day, he gave her a wink from across the room, and from that moment on, their hearts were in rhythm. They married on April 8, 1945, in Paris, Texas, just two months before Bernard left to serve in World War II. He spent two years overseas in the Army field troops during the occupation of Japan. Zelda was proud of his service and eagerly awaited his return.

After a short stint as a seamstress at a local bra factory, Zelda discovered that her greatest fulfillment came from caring for those around her. She devoted herself to homemaking with quiet strength and unwavering love, building a household that radiated warmth, laughter, and belonging. Zelda had a way of sensing when someone needed her, whether it was a relative recovering from illness or a neighbor going through a hard time. She stepped in without fanfare, offering comfort, companionship, and practical help. Caregiving wasn't just something she did, it was part of who she was.

Zelda's faith was a steady and cherished part of her life. She and Bernard were devoted members of the Church of Christ in McLean, Texas, where she was baptized on April 6, 1952, and Bernard followed on March 29, 1953. Over the years, they served their congregation with heartfelt dedication - Zelda as a children's Sunday School teacher and Bernard as the song leader. In her later years, Zelda loved to share stories from those meaningful days, recalling the joy of teaching children and the sound of Bernard's voice leading hymns. Their service to the church was a reflection of their deep faith and the love they poured into their family.

Zelda had a gift for cooking and took pride in preparing meals for local cowboys and family alike. She especially cherished having her table full of hungry cowboys after a long day of working cattle or hauling hay on the farm. Her angel food cake, made from her mother's well-worn recipe, became a cherished tradition, especially during the holidays. Her kitchen was a place of comfort, where stories were shared and memories made. Thanksgiving, in particular, became a beloved family tradition, with generations gathering around her table year after year to enjoy the feast she lovingly prepared.

She will be remembered for her gentle humor, her resilience, and the way she always put others first. Zelda didn't seek attention, but her presence was deeply felt by those around her. Her life was a reflection of quiet devotion and enduring love.

As we honor Zelda's memory, we carry forward the lessons she taught us - about faith, family, and the importance of showing up for one another. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched and the love she gave so freely. In keeping with Zelda's wishes, the family suggests that memorial donations be made to High Plains Children's Home in Amarillo, Texas, a cause close to her heart.