James Edward McClendon

Mr. James Edward McClendon “Ed”, 80, of Leesburg, Ga., went home to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, Thursday, October 9, 2025, at his home.

Mr. McClendon, a native of Coffee County, Ga. was born on August 4, 1945, to the late Horace and Ethyl McDaniel McClendon.

For over five decades, Ed traveled across America’s endless highways as an over-the-road trucker, hauling freight for a string of companies that became his family. Earning the handle of Mule Skinner. Week after week, he’d conquer the open road, crisscrossing the United States with massive loads in tow, pulling into his beloved truck stops where he’d swap wild tales with fellow wanderers and forge fleeting friendships.

Those rare, precious pit stops at home were pure bliss- Ed would fire up his lawn mower, carving perfect stripes into the grass like a master artist on canvas. With an arsenal of fifty water hoses snaking through the yard like lifelines, he’d drench the earth, coaxing lush growth that promised another satisfying mow upon his return.

And oh, those glorious Sundays! He would sink into his favorite chair, eyes glued to the thunderous NASCAR race, hollering with unbridled passions as his champion drivers screamed around the track, engines roaring in symphony with his own adventurous spirit.

Survivors include: his wife Jackie McClendon of Leesburg, Ga., son James Franklin McClendon “Frankie” of Baxley, Ga, daughter Edye Cassandra McClendon “Sandi” of Baxley, Ga., stepdaughter Jennifer Heath (Karl) of Leesburg, Ga., Daughter in Law Tiffany Cook of Leesburg, Ga, grandchildren, Amber Cook, Baileigh Summerall (Jarrett), Adam Heath, Kara Heath, Brandi Bridges and Ty Cook all of Leesburg, Ga., one great grandchild Hope McCarty of Leesburg, Ga., brother in law Huey Sears of Douglas, Ga., and lots of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Horace and Ethyl McClendon, stepson Jeffery Cook, sister Cathleen “Cat” Sears, and brothers, Johnny McClendon, Harvey McClendon and wife Virgil McClendon, and Freddy McClendon and wife Sue McClendon.

There will be a memorial service held at a later date with details to come.