It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Phyllis Selina McClendon, who left us peacefully on January 17, 2026, at the age of 69. Phyllis was born on January 7, 1957, in the Army Base located in Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri.
Phyllis was the cherished daughter of Elizabeth Bradley and William N. Wingo Sr (her father who preceded her transition).
Phyllis was formerly married to Terence McClendon, with whom she shared children and many memorable years.
Phyllis’s greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted and beloved mother to her children: LaRelle (Beth) McClendon, Monique McClendon, and Maximillion (Cyrissa) McClendon. Her nurturing spirit and loving care extended to her grandchildren: Maximillion McClendon, Jr., Elijah Johnson, Victoria Johnson, Mason McClendon, Morgan McClendon, and Miles McClendon. She was a proud and supportive presence in their lives, always offering wisdom, warmth, and unconditional love.
She was also a dear sister to her siblings: William (Donna) Wingo, Janet (Donald) Humphrey, Tony (Pauline) Bradley, Sonya (Craig) Kimbrough, Barbara (Kamva) Makuta, and Jason Williams. Phyllis’s bond with her family was a cornerstone of her life, and she will be dearly missed by all who knew her.
Phyllis grew up in St. Louis, MO, and spent several years in Columbus, Ohio before returning to her beloved hometown of St. Louis. Her life was enriched by the grandchildren, family and friends who loved her dearly. She was a beloved cousin and a friend to many, known for her hard-working nature, her sharp wit, and her deep love for her family and friends.
Friends and family are invited to celebrate Phyllis’s life at the visitation, which will be held at Kutis Affton Chapel, 10151 Gravois Rd., St. Louis, MO. 63123, on Thursday, January 29, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. A service in her honor will take place on Friday, January 30, at 9:00 a.m., followed by interment at Memorial Park Cemetery, 5200 Lucas and Hunt Road Jennings, Missouri 63121.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the American Cancer Society in Phyllis’s name. Phyllis’s vibrant spirit and dedication to her family will forever be remembered by those who were fortunate enough to know and love her.
May she rest in peace and eternal love.
My condolences to my family in St. Louis. Aunt Liz, I pray that The Lord comforts not only your heart, but also your soul. May you find peace in knowing that Phyllis left many of us with cherish-able memories.
Cousin Phyllis, thank you for the time spent here in The C.O. The days and times you and I shared were full of nothing but jokes and your contagious laugh! I have and will forever keep that part of you in my heart. I love you Cousin Phyllis. Always…. San