Funeral services for Freda Jean McLendon, 89, will be at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, June 9, 2025, at Beulah Baptist Church in Inverness, MS. There will be a visitation from 1:00 p.m. until service time.She went to be with Jesus on June 5, 2025, passing peacefully at home, surrounded by love. Burial will be in Greencrest Gardens in Belzoni.
Freda was born on July 8, 1935, in Vicksburg, Mississippi, to Ralph “Bill” Luster and his wife Josie. She was the third of seven siblings and grew up in a close-knit family. She married the love of her life, Bill McLendon, on September 13, 1952, and together they built a life in Belzoni, Mississippi, raising two sons, William and Jimmy.
Freda—known affectionately as Mamaw to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren—was the most selfless woman we’ve ever known. She never sat still for long; she was always looking for someone to serve, something to do, someone to care for. Whether it was a warm meal, a listening ear, or a quiet prayer, she gave all she had in love and service. Her faith was not just something she spoke about—it was something she lived every single day. She truly was the hands and feet of Jesus.
To know Mamaw was to feel seen, cherished, and loved. She filled every room with grace, warmth, and a quiet strength. Her unwavering devotion to her family and her Savior shaped generations and left a lasting legacy of compassion and faith.
We take comfort knowing she was welcomed into Heaven with open arms—not only by her Savior, but by her beloved husband Bill and her son William. What a sweet reunion it must have been.
Freda is preceded in death by her husband, Bill McLendon; her son, William McLendon; her parents, Ralph and Josie Luster; her sisters, Mildred, Rosie and Christine; brothers, Buddy and Billy Tom.
She is survived by her son, Jimmy McLendon, and his wife Susanne; and their children: Rachel, Jenna, Kate, Jordan (wife Sadie), and Jon Reed (wife Kaitlin); and great-grandchildren Matty and Merritt. She is also survived by her daughter-in-law, Louanne McLendon (widow of William), and their children: Billy (wife Debbie), Beth (husband AC), and Breanne (husband Dave); and great-grandchildren Owen, Sophie, Peyton, Breelyn, and Baylor.
She is also survived by her beloved sister, Lois Tharp, who was not only her sister but a devoted caregiver and constant support in the final days of her life.
The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the members of Beulah Baptist Church; the compassionate nurses and staff of Heart of Hospice—especially her nurse Erin; Rose, who cared for Mamaw with such tender love and faithfulness. A special thank you as well to her niece, Nancy, who cared for Mamaw in countless ways, from taking her places to sitting by her bedside to making sure her hair was nicely done. The family can never thank these people enough.
Freda’s legacy is one of faith, service, and deep, unconditional love. She will be missed more than words can express, but we rejoice knowing she is finally home.