J.W. McLendon Jr., 89, passed away on September 3, 2024, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The son of J.W. McLendon Sr. and Flossie Ann (Boone) McLendon, both deceased. J.W. was born August 12, 1935, in Graham, Texas. His boyhood years were spent in Junction, Texas and Huntsville, Arkansas.

J.W. graduated from Huntsville Vocational School (now known as Huntsville High School), in 1953. Following high school, he attended The University of Arkansas where he served as a walk-on quarterback for the Razorbacks and was in USAF ROTC. He graduated from the University of Arkansas in 1957 with a BS in Business Administration.

While in college he married the love of his life, his soul mate, Lettie Cain. Though very young they set out to conquer the world. J.W. often credited Lettie with his ability to be so successful in his pursuits. Whatever he set out to do, he did and often said without his sweetheart none of it would have been possible. Though others believed they were too young to marry and said the marriage wouldn't last, they proved them wrong. On July 15, 2024, they celebrated their 69 years together. Their marriage of 69 years blessed them with four daughters, nine grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. J.W. modeled and embodied a giving heart throughout his life.

Following college, he began his career in the USAF as a pilot, certified as a flight instructor and Air Transport Pilot. He served as a fighter pilot for ten years and flew over 200 combat missions in Vietnam in the A1 Skyraider. J.W. received an honorable discharge from the USAF in 1966 and was awarded nine Air Medals for Vietnam combat and the Airman's Medal of Heroism.

After leaving the USAF J.W. began his second career as a Captain flying for American Airlines, serving 29 years (1966-1995), twenty which were in the Flight Test Division. He also started his own business in 1967 as owner and president of Aero Instrument Service, an aircraft instrument overhaul facility licensed by the FAA all the while selling real estate. It was not uncommon for J.W. to have several careers all at one time. Along with being a test pilot for American Airlines, owning an instrument business he also owned and operated McLendon Manufacturing, a primary manufacturer of equipment used in the oil industry, he also was a licensed real estate broker, was a 33rd degree Mason and held several other memberships that allowed him to serve his country and community.

Those who had the honor to have J.W, in their lives were blessed. He was a man who believed in second chances. He cared so completely, gave so quietly and loved deeply. He was an extraordinary man who was deeply loved by his family and friends. He has been a rock to many, a master of sarcastic humor, wit and never hesitated to state things as he saw them. His determination and dedication were evident in all aspects of his life.

J.W.'s retirement was spent in Huntsville, Arkansas. He truly loved nature and the outdoors, he loved working on his ranch, fishing in the Kings River and spending time with family. His grandchildren each had the wonderful opportunity to spend a portion of their summer one on one with Daddy-J as he was called, working and bonding with their grandfather. A rare event that no doubt will have lasting memories. The Place Ranch was the gathering place for our family's yearly reunions.

J.W. was preceded in death by his mother, father, and two sisters. He is survived by his wife Lettie McLendon, the mother of his children, Tara Le Fair (husband Curt and children Richard and J.W. Fair), Serrina Kay Monnin (husband Gary and children Ty and Troy Oden), Melissa Ann Abrahamsen (husband Marty and children Kara Woolery, Sky Abrahamsen), and Twila Marie Dito (husband Bill and children, Justin and Branden Dito, Brittney Thorton), his great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

There will be a graveside service for family members on September 7, 2024. Donations in honor of J.W. McLendon Jr. can be made to the Huntsville Masonic Lodge #364, 300 Main Street, Huntsville, Arkansas 72740.