Delores “Jan” McClanahan was gathered by her Lord Jesus on Tuesday, October 8, 2024 at the Hospice of South Texas Dornburg Center of Compassion in Victoria, Texas at the age of 73. She was born on September 21, 1951 to Virgil A. McClanahan and Mildred Lucille Jackson McClanahan in Columbus, Texas. Jan always took great pride in being the only True Born Texan of her immediate family. Her parents were both ‘Okies’ and her siblings were all ‘Coonies.’ Dad then moved us back to our home in Patterson, LA, until the fall of 1960 when he was transferred to Premont Mobil plant. Our family was so excited to unite with Mom’s only sister, Flora Wayman and husband, Glenn and cousin, Edward. The family enjoyed living in this unique community with ‘oil people’ from all over the US. The schools & churches lovingly reached out to the new arrivals. Teachers were top notch professionals. It was like ‘Mayberry’ with a Texas flavor.
Jan loved her classmates, forming long lasting friendships which she tried to follow through Facebook. Jan enjoyed sports, especially playing basketball as a Premont Cowgirl. She grew up cheering and encouraging others and practiced that throughout life. Her nieces and nephews were keenly aware that Jan was in attendance at their competitions. She could be clearly heard in a gym or a stadium. And if that embarrassed you, then “Get Over It! I’m your Aunt and my love is Loud!” She was a Woman of Committed Devotions. Clearly her JOY was found in Family-that precious fellowship of belonging and giving of yourself consistently. Her motto must have been: Be Intentional-Be Evident-Be Obvious-Be Unhidden. Her kindness and acceptance went before her as a Beacon of unconditional love. As their great encouragement, when family members started a career, Jan was in your corner. Don’t quit. Be serious about what you do. People are counting on you. You can make a real difference no matter the job. Throw yourself into where God is leading. He will provide. Only Believe and Act. Remember the Lord loves you. All the McClanahan children learned from their parents a strong work ethic. That lesson was passed to their children and if you want to honor them continue that in future generations.
She had been a real pioneer as a woman being accepted in the oil fields and refining plants. She was one of the first women hired by Mobil Corporation - not working in the office, but with a hard hat, gloves, and steel toed boots. Our Dad, who put in 35 years with Mobil, was so proud of her. We all grew up knowing life in the oil patch. Before retirement, Delores worked for 25 years as a Field Operator for Mobil Oil. Then she worked 10 years at Formosa Plastics in Jackson Co. Texas. Her final job was at Kohl’s unloading trucks and stocking the store in Victoria, TX.
Delores is preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Julie McClanahan Storm; and brother, Jack Glenn McClanahan.
She is survived by her brother, Joe J. (Jan) McClanahan of Edna, Texas; brother-in-law, Bill Storm of Premont, Texas; sister-in-law, Donita McClanahan of Sinton, Texas; nieces and nephews, Judy (Charlie) Paulette of San Antonio, Texas, Jason (Katie) McClanahan of San Antonio, Joel (Josette) McClanahan of Corpus Christi, Texas, Nick (Mackenna) McClanahan of Ft. Worth, Texas, Megan (Jason) Axline of San Antonio, Mikaela (Jared) Schmalstieg of Sinton, and Jake Storm of Premont; great-nieces and great-nephews, Jackson McClanahan, Joann McClanahan, Jaylee McClanahan, Lennon McClanahan, Charlie McClanahan, Sawyer Axline, Natalie Schmalstieg and Emily Schmalstieg and other extended family members and friends.
Our families are so grateful for every expression of loving kindness and prayer. Jan was aware of your outpourings during her surgery and recovery. We ask that you continue to pray as we learn to navigate this life without our Janny. We yearn for the Day of the LORD, when all His children meet Christ Jesus in the air as He returns. A Grand Reunion -What a day that will be!
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Edna First Baptist Church - Operation Christmas Child-PO Box 417, Edna, TX 77957, or a charity of your choice.
A Graveside Service for Delores will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 19, 2024 at the Premont Cemetery.
