Robert Elee McLendon was a loving and devoted husband for 68 years, supportive father, proud Scotsman and servant of Christ. He passed away at his residence in the care of his family and Hospice on December 25, 2020. His family will inurn him privately and celebrate his life at Starmount Presbyterian Church at a later date.
Bob was born in Sanford, NC in 1930 and served his country in the US Army. Over donuts and coffee with a friend, he met a 17-year-old waitress, Vera Watson, who captured his heart and they married on Mar 1, 1952. They moved to Greensboro so Bob could continue his education at Guilford College and work for Brame Industries where he resigned after 29 years of service. He and Vera then started Kel-Mac Metals Inc. (an electro-plating equipment and supply company) and retired in 1995.
Bob and Vera became members of Starmount Presbyterian Church in 1963 where he served as elder, deacon, Sunday school teacher and on several committees. Bob was a 32nd degree Mason and a 65 year member of Revolution Masonic Lodge #552 in Greensboro. He was a constant presence in his children’s lives and guided them through the milestones of growing up such as learning to ride a bike and driving. He constantly wanted his children to succeed beyond his own accomplishments and although indulgent, especially to his daughter, his love was sometimes disguised by a strict but fair approach to parenting. His faith in God was exemplified in how he lived his life, raised his family and conducted his business. His friends and family will remember his kind and generous heart, determined spirit and fun times together with Bob at the grill. He was an outdoorsman in the truest sense of the word and love to fish, boat and work in his immaculately kept yard but his favorite hobby was cars.
He is survived by his wife, Vera Watson McLendon of Greensboro; children, Ron McLendon of Nashville, TN and Pat (Richard) Rickman of Jamestown; grandchildren, Tammy (Bill) Dixon of Greensboro, Erica (Zac) Combs of Chesapeake, VA and Alexis (Jimmy) Ford of High Point; eleven great grandchildren; one great great grandson; and three cousins.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Starmount Presbyterian Church, 3501 W. Market St., Greensboro, NC 27403 or AuthoraCare Collective, 2500 Summit Ave., Greensboro, NC 27405.
Online condolences may be offered at www.haneslineberryfhsedgefield.com.
