John Reynolds McClelland, Jr., beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on November 6, 2024, at the age of 83. Born on July 19, 1941, in San Angelo, Texas, John lived a life full of dedication and love for his family and community.
At the age of 5, John moved with his parents from San Angelo to Texon, Texas, and later to Sonora. An Eagle Scout by 15, he was known for his athleticism, lettering in football and basketball, and was honored as Mr. Sonora High in 1959.
John attended Texas Tech University, where he met his lifelong friend, Charley Goodman. After college, he served his country in the U.S. Army, including a deployment with the 1st Cavalry in Vietnam and the Dominican Republic.
Following his service, John moved to Philadelphia to work in engineering alongside Charley before returning to Houston, where he met Sharon, his future beloved wife. They married in 1967, with Charley and Shirley Goodman by their side, beginning a life together full of love, devotion, and faith.
In 1966, John began his career as an electrical designer with Lummus, later ABB Global, where he worked for an incredible 50 years until his retirement in 2016. His work took him across the globe—to Japan, Europe, Colombia, and Saudi Arabia.
In 1997, John and Sharon purchased property on the South Llano River in Junction, Texas, where they enjoyed kayaking, fishing, and raising goats. They cherished the river’s natural beauty and the close-knit community that surrounded them.
A man of faith, John was involved with Pearland First Baptist Church while raising his family. His love of scripture and fellowship continued throughout his life, as he enjoyed studying the Bible and attending the Junction First Methodist Church, Men’s Bible Study and Community Bible Study.
John was an avid fisherman, a love he inherited from his father and shared with his children, teaching them to fly fish, tie flies, and set trotlines. He loved fishing trips along the Gulf Coast and kayaking on the South Llano River. John was a proud Houston sports fan, rarely missing a Houston Oilers or Texans game, and he loved a good round of golf. John and Sharon enjoyed socializing and entertaining, warmly welcoming friends and family alike.
John’s legacy is one of love, strength, and joy. He will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered by his wife Sharon, sons Trey and Fiancée Ashley Sliwa, Jess and wife Heather, grandchildren Jake, Kennedy, Cole and his many nieces, nephews, friends and neighbors. John was preceded in death by his father, John Reynolds McClelland, Sr., mother, Faye James McClelland and sister, Jan McClelland King.
A Celebration Of Life honoring John will be held 11:00 AM, December 14, 2024, First Methodist Church, Junction, Texas.
