Mr. James Davis “Pedro” McClendon, age 75, of Locust Grove, Georgia, passed away Friday, May 8, 2026.

James was born on Wednesday, February 28, 1951, in Griffin, Georgia to the late David Elwood McClendon and Bernice Evelyn Meredith McClendon. Along with his father, he was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Vivian Crowe; and his brother, Larry McClendon.

He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Betsy and Lance Crowe; son and daughter-in-law, Josh and Valerie McClendon; grandchildren, Elijah Saldivar, Caleb Saldivar, Keller Crowe, Judah McClendon, Mira McClendon, Levi McClendon; mother, Bernice McClendon; brother, David “Buddy” McClendon, Jr, sister, Dianne Helms; and many extended family members.

James, known to everyone as Pedro, was born and raised on a farm in Jenkinsburg, Georgia. From an early age, he fell in love with the sweet smell of freshly plowed ground, and from that moment on, he never lost his love for working the soil and seeking a harvest.

Throughout his life, Pedro worked as a mechanic, farmer, plumber, HVAC technician, and heavy equipment operator. For the last 21 years, he worked at Warren Holder Equipment in Locust Grove. He was a jack of all trades, but his favorite work was farming. Hunting, fishing, and gardening were his favorite hobbies, but he also loved sharing a good meal with the people he loved.

Pedro was a member of Philippi Baptist Church, where he faithfully attended for more than 34 years. He served his church in many ways, including singing in the choir, teaching, serving as Sunday School director, and running sound.

Most everyone knew him as “Pedro,” but to his grandchildren, he was simply “Pop.” Pop dearly loved his children and grandchildren — and really, just about any child. He will be remembered as a man who worked hard, cared deeply, laughed until he cried, and gave good hugs.

A memorial service for Pedro will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Philippi Baptist Church. The family will receive friends at 10:00 a.m. at the church before the service.

Those who wish may sign the online guest registry at www.westburyfuneralhomes.com.

Sherrell-Westbury Funeral Home, 212 E. College Street, Jackson, GA, is serving the McClendon family.