Mark was born June 30, 1960, in Navasota to James L. and Wilma (Bryant) McClendon. Mark graduated from Bryan High School in 1978 and went on to dedicate 34 years to law enforcement. He began his career with the College Station Police Department before serving 32 distinguished years with the Plano Police Department, where he spent more than two decades as a detective. Throughout his career, Mark earned numerous commendations in recognition of his professionalism, integrity, and commitment to protecting others.
While Mark was proud of his career, his greatest joy came from his family and the simple pleasures of life. He loved working the land, tending cattle, hunting, and spending time outdoors. He was an avid baseball and football fan, and a lifelong supporter of Texas A&M athletics. Mark was also a member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church.
Mark is preceded in death by his son, Michael McClendon; sister, Sherri Price; and mother, Wilma McClendon.
Mark is survived by his wife, Debbie McClendon; daughter, Jennifer Helka; son and daughter-in-law, Josh and Kendra McClendon; grandchildren, Lucas Helka, Paul Helka Jr., Rileynn Helka, and Jace McClendon; his father, Jimmie McClendon; brother and sister-in-law, Jimmy and Janie McClendon; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 p.m. on Friday, May 29, at Memorial Funeral Chapel in Bryan with a rosary at 7:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, May 30, at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Bryan. Service will be livestreamed at www.saintanthonys.org Interment will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. service will be livestreamed at facebook.com/memorialbryan
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God – Matthew 5:9
