Dr. Steve McCleery

Dr. Steve McCleery was born on December 14, 1949, in San Angelo, Texas, to his loving parents, Forrest and Rose McCleery. On April 2, 2025, Steve passed away peacefully in his home, surrounded by his family and loved ones.

Steve graduated from Odessa High School in 1968, a milestone that marked the start of many chapters in his life. After graduation, he attended Lubbock Christian University and graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science in Education. He then continued his education through Texas Tech University and graduated with a Masters in Physical Education. Several years later, he returned to college and earned his Doctorate degree in Educational Administration and Supervision at the University of New Mexico. His dedication to education speaks volumes about his passion for learning and growth.

Steve’s life took a beautiful turn when he met his wife, Lynda, while attending Lubbock Christian University. He married the love of his life on August 15, 1970. Together, they built a beautiful life over 54 wonderful years, blessed with their three daughters—Hollee, Lyndsee, and Brittanee—who were the pride and joy of his heart. Their enduring partnership and the family they nurtured formed the cornerstone of Steve’s remarkable life.

Steve honorably served in the Army Reserves for six years, exemplifying his commitment to duty and service. This dedication to his country adds yet another remarkable chapter to his life story. Steve moved to Hobbs, New Mexico, in 1980 to embark on a distinguished career in academia as a professor at the University of the Southwest. In 1984, he joined New Mexico Junior College as a facility coordinator, where his dedication and leadership led him to hold numerous pivotal roles. These included Director of Athletics (1988–1991), Dean of Arts and Sciences (1991–1998), and President (1998–2016). After his initial retirement, Steve graciously returned to serve as Interim President (2021–2022) and was later honored as President Emeritus (2022–2024), a testament to the enduring impact of his contributions.

Steve was an active and dedicated community leader, lending his time and expertise to many organizations throughout his life. He served as a Lubbock Christian University Board Member, New Horizons Foundation Board Member, Lea Regional Medical Center Board Member, and Hobbs Rotary Club advocate. His involvement with the United Way of Lea County included roles as a Board Member, President of the United Way Board, and Chair of the United Way Campaign. In addition to his local contributions, Steve held leadership positions as President of the New Mexico Independent Community College, President of the New Mexico Association of Community Colleges, and President of the Western Junior College Athletic Association. He also served as Chairman of Community Advocates for the New Mexico Junior College Mill Levy Campaign, among numerous other organizations. His unwavering commitment to service left a lasting impact on his community and beyond.

Steve was deeply devoted to his faith. He served as an active member and Elder at Taylor Street Church of Christ and Green Lawn Church of Christ, offering guidance and leadership to his church family. His spiritual commitment and service to others were central to his life and legacy.

Steve was the recipient of numerous accolades throughout his life, reflecting his exceptional contributions and dedication to his community. Among his many honors were:

Outstanding Young Man of Hobbs (1986–1987)

Awards Citation for Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States (1996 and 1997)

Paul Harris Fellow Recognition (2003 and 2015)

Outstanding Citizen of Hobbs (2003)

Heritage of Odessa Foundation, Distinguished Former Odessan (2005)

Lea County Hall of Fame “Silver Concho Award” (2015)

New Mexico Distinguished Public Service Award (2015)

Hobbs HISPANO Chamber of Commerce “Hero Award” (2016)

Western Junior College Athletic Conference Hall of Fame (2018)

LCU, F.W. Mattox Award (2023)

These accolades, along with numerous other awards and recognitions, stand as a testament to Steve’s legacy of leadership, service, and commitment to uplifting others.

Steve was a man of boundless energy and diverse interests. He loved spending time with his family, cherishing those moments of joy and laughter. His passion for physical activity shone through in his love for running, bicycling, playing basketball, and yardwork, reflecting his vibrant and active lifestyle. He also had a creative side, enjoying playing the guitar and singing. Music brought him great joy, especially Christian music and the timeless sounds of the Eagles, which were close to his heart. Steve’s dedication to New Mexico Junior College was apparent, as he enthusiastically attended all NMJC sporting events and campus activities. Above all, his greatest passion was studying the Bible and sharing his love for the Lord with others—a reflection of his unwavering faith and commitment to spreading God’s word.

Steve is preceded in death by his mother, Rose Allie McCleery, his sister, Brenda Bishop, and his great-granddaughter, Wrenley James Gray. Their memories undoubtedly remained close to his heart throughout his life.

He leaves behind a loving legacy through his wife and children: Lynda McCleery of Lubbock, Texas, Hollee (David) Gray of Amarillo, Texas, Lyndsee Cross of Lubbock, Texas, and Brittanee (Brian) Weimer of Hobbs, New Mexico. He was a cherished grandfather to Beau and Brylee Gray, and Hudson, Holden and Hayes Cross. He is also a proud great-grandfather to Waylen James Gray, further extending the legacy of love and family that he nurtured throughout his life. Steve is also survived by his dad, Forrest McCleery of Odessa, TX and his loving sister, Tina (Steve) Nelms of Odessa, Texas.

Steve, was a Godly man with a servant’s heart. His faith was the foundation of his life, guiding his actions and inspiring those around him. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who cherished his family and lived a life of love, humility, and service.

Services will be held on Saturday, April 12th at 2:00 PM at Green Lawn Church of Christ in Lubbock, TX. Memorials can be made to NMJC Foundation, Lubbock Christian University, or the Steve and Lynda McCleery Educational Endowment at the Children’s Home of Lubbock.