Zacharias H. McClendon

Zacharias H. McClendon, age 25, of Gulfport, MS, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, December 18, 2013, in Oxford, MS.
Zach was born in Gulfport to Percy Eugene and Paula Kaye Lee McClendon. He was a graduate of Gulfport High School where he was registered in many gifted classes. He served twice as first chair in the Honor Orchestra for the state of MS playing upright base and cello. He earned an invitation to go to Governor's School during summer break in high school and eventually accepted an educational scholarship to Williams College in Williamstown, MA, where he earned a degree in Chemistry and Biochemistry. During some of his free time, he substitute taught at Gulfport High School and taught Biology 101 at MGCCC in Perkinston. Zach also trained with American Medical Response to be a paramedic. He furthered his education at MS College where he earned his Master's Degree in Biology, Medical Science. He also had interned under two orthopaedic surgeons locally. He was currently an M.B.A. candidate at the University of Mississippi. Zach was going to make the announcement at Christmas to his family and friends that he had been accepted to the University of MS Medical School in Jackson. He was a talented and smart guy who enjoyed tutoring, cooking, and helping others. His accomplishments in such a short time period are a testimony of his God-given spirit as he journeyed to be a doctor that would help the less fortunate. Zach was truly a gift from God. Prior to his birth, the Lord spoke to his mother which led to the name he was given, which was not the name originally selected for him. His legacy of integrity, hard work, and love for others will live on with his family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Santos Janer-i Malone McClendon; grandfather, Q.C. Lee.
He is survived by his parents, Percy E. and Paula K. Mclendon of Gulfport; siblings, Jennifer Hill, Steven Nichols, Percy McClendon, Jr., Olivia A. McClendon, and Amanda McClendon; and grandmothers, Ethel Bounds and Patricia A. Mack.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, December 21, 2013, at Pass Road Baptist Church, Gulfport, from 2:30 p.m. until 4:30 p.m. A Celebration of Life will be at 4:30 p.m. in the church sanctuary.
RIEMANN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 11280 Three Rivers Road, Gulfport, is in charge of arrangements, and memories may be shared at www.riemannfamily.com.