Marcella Joyce McClendon of Rocky Ford passed away on Sunday, April 16, 2023 at the age of 79. She was born in La Junta on May 7, 1943. Her father was a local farmer. Marcella graduated from Rocky Ford High School and later on married Tom McClendon of La Junta on December 21, 1962. She raised her family in Washington state and returned to Colorado around 1990. She had a career as a travel coordinator for Colorado Boys Ranch, and she had a passion for sewing and baking. Marcella was a member of The Church of the Nazarene.

Marcella is survived by her 2 sons: Marty McClendon of Montgomery, TX and Justin McClendon of Honolulu, HI, 6 grandchildren: Logan McClendon, Faith McClendon, Gracelyn McClendon, Sarrett McClendon, Paige Brittain, Chloe McClendon, 3 great-grandchildren: Ivory McClendon, Atticus McClendon, Octavia McClendon as well as numerous nieces and nephews.