of Crocketts Bluff, AR

November 21, 1947 - March 31, 2025

Donna Marie McClendon, age 77, passed away peacefully on March 31, 2025, in Conway, Arkansas. Born on November 21, 1947, in Little Rock, Arkansas, Donna lived a life deeply rooted in the natural beauty and traditions of her beloved home state.

Though born to Alma Jean Paul and Herman Herbert Haney, Donna was lovingly raised by her mother and father, Gertrude Johnston and Elmer Richard Johnston. From an early age, she developed a profound connection to the land around her-a bond that would shape her passions and bring her peace throughout her life.

Donna graced this world with an unforgettable blend of elegance, unwavering resilience, and a wit that could spark laughter in any room. Her spirit was deeply tied to the White River in Crockett's Bluff, Arkansas-a place where she found solace among whispering woods and flowing waters. For Donna, hunting and fishing were not just pastimes but a way of life. Whether casting a line into the river at dawn or tracking game through the crisp morning air, she embraced the outdoors with appreciation and joy. Her garden bloomed under her care as another testament to her love for nature's rhythms.

Her greatest joy resided in her family. To her three children-Richard McClendon, Billy Norris McClendon, and Celesta Kay McClendon, she was more than a mother; she was their guiding light. To her grandchildren-Whitney Witcher, Tiffany Riddell, Jared Golden, Chance Golden, Celina McClendon, Evan Tiner, Drake McKinney, and Lauren Richards and Great-grandchildren, Kasen and Holden Tiner. She was simply known as ''Meme,'' a name spoken with affection and reverence. Meme offered boundless love wrapped in playful adventures and timeless wisdom-often delivered with a twinkle in her eye and a perfectly timed remark that brought both laughter and insight. Blessed to know the warmth of her embrace and the sparkle of her stories. Whether teaching patience through fishing or sharing tales from the woods with a knowing smile, Donna's presence was always one of comfort and strength.

She shared many years of marriage with her late husband, Phillip McClendon. Together, they built a life filled with love for family, hard work and appreciation for the simple joys of rural Arkansas living.

Donna is also remembered by her siblings: brothers Herb (Vickie) Hartford and Brett Hartford; sister Heidi (Phillip) Paul; as well as numerous extended family members and friends who cherished her presence. She joins in rest her brother Bruce Hartford; grandsons Brandon White and Steven McClendon; along with her parents Alma Jean Paul and Herman Herbert Haney.

Adding immeasurable warmth to Donna's days were her three loyal canine companions-Roadie, Lissie, and Gertie-who remained faithfully by her side through her last seasons of life.

Donna Marie McClendon leaves behind a legacy woven from laughter shared beneath open skies, lessons passed down beside riverbanks, and love that will echo through generations. May her memory bring comfort to those who knew her and may the rivers she loved so dearly carry forth the spirit of a woman who lived fully and loved deeply.

There will be a family gathering at a later date to celebrate the life of Donna.

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-McNutt Funeral Home
650 Central Landing Blvd.
Conway, AR  72032
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com