Leola Patricia McLendon A.K.A “Pat” was born on December 18, 1948, in Columbia, South Carolina to Elease Cooper raised her with love, strength, and unwavering support. From a young age, she displayed a vibrant spirit, a kind heart, and natural ability to bring joy to those around her.

 Whether it was her infectious laughter, her caring nature, or her ability to turn any moment into a cherished memory, was a gift to all who had the privilege of knowing her. She attended Baltimore City Public Schools graduating Frederick Douglas Senior High School in 1966, where she excelled academically and built lifelong friendships. “Pat” hardworking and ambitious individual; she went on to pursue an education in Business at the Cortez Peters Business School in Baltimore where she graduated in 1968. 

Patricia Later Married Thornton Bernard McLendon in May of 1970 and from that union they had one daughter Christal Rasean McLendon Born October 4, 1970. That union lasted fifty years until Thornton departed this life.

“Pat” began a career at Blue Cross Blue Shield where she retired after 32 years of service. Her dedication and passion lasting impact on colleagues and clients alike. She was deeply committed to her work, always striving to make a difference and leave a positive mark on the world.

Beyond her professional achievements, Patricia was a woman of many passions and talents. She found joy in Writing B and Poetry even winning a prize for her book in Reno, Nevada, she also took great pride in cooking her family's fa: meals. She was always eager to share her talents with those around her. Whether she was reciting her poems in a restaurant full of people during family gatherings, or cooking meals for loved ones, she embraced every experience with enthusiasm and love.

“Pat” was a wonderful mother who had a great love for music. She saw talent in her daughter Christal Franklin’s Si and dancing. “Pat” began devoting all her free time and love into nurturing Christal's music career. Pat even all Christal's singing group UPI to rehearse in her basement at one point, she often traveled to shows, ironed uniforms, listened to hours upon hours of Christal singing the same song over and over rehearsing, but she never said a word! “Pat” sacrificed her own interest and hobbies for her daughter's singing career because she loved her and believed in her dream. 

More than anything, “Pat” was devoted to her family and friends. She cherished her relationships and was a sour strength, laughter, and unwavering support to those who needed her. Her love for her Family knew no bounds, and she great pride in being a loyal daughter, sister, wife, and friend. She is survived by her Daughter Christal Rasean Franklin Sister Deniece Cooper-Oglesby, One Brother Bryant Keith Ford, Sr. and Two Brother-In-Loyes Darrell Oglesby, and Cl Terrence McLendon, One Sister-In-Love Alice Drayton, and a host of loving nieces, nephews, aunts, cousins, and friends. 

She was preceded in death by her husband Thornton Bernard McLendon, Her Mother Elease Cooper, Mother and father love Nellean and Clayton McLendon and nephew Darian Adams whom we take comfort in knowing welcomed her with arms. Though the pain of her loss is overwhelming, we find solace in the memories she left behind. 

Her spirit will live on in every shared story, every echo of laughter, and every act of love inspired by her example. We forever carry her in our hearts.