OZARK…Mr. Robert E. “Bob” McClellan, Jr. (CW5, United States Army, Retired), a resident of Ozark, died late Friday evening, October 3, 2025, at the home of his daughter. He was 78.
Funeral services, with full military honors, will be held at 9:00 A.M. Wednesday, October 8, 2025, in Prince of Peace Lutheran Church with Pastor Chad Ingle officiating. Burial will follow in Fort Mitchell National Cemetery. Fuqua Bankston Funeral Home of Ozark is in charge of arrangements. The family will receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 P.M. Tuesday at the funeral home.
Mr. McClellan lived a life marked by service, devotion, and quiet strength. Born in Walton County, Florida, he was the cherished son of the late Lt. Colonel Robert Eugene McClellan, Sr., United States Air Force, Retired, and his beloved mother, whose grace and love helped shape the man he became. Growing up in a military family meant moving often—he lived in various places across the country and even overseas, experiencing different cultures and communities while his father served our nation. These early years instilled in him a deep sense of discipline, adaptability, and patriotism.
Following in his father’s footsteps, Mr. McClellan chose a life of service and enlisted in the United States Army. Over the course of twenty-nine dedicated years, he rose through the ranks and retired as a Chief Warrant Officer 5 on September 30, 1996, at Fort Rucker. His military career was not just a job—it was a calling. He gave his all to his country, earning the respect and admiration of those who served alongside him. His leadership, integrity, and commitment left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him in uniform.
In 1985, Mr. McClellan made Ozark, Alabama his home—a place where he would continue to serve, connect, and give back. He became an active member of the community, joining the Ozark Kiwanis Club where he served as Past President. He found joy in volunteering at the Army Aviation Museum at Fort Rucker, sharing stories, preserving history, and honoring the legacy of aviation and military service. His love for history and his respect for those who served made him a natural fit for this role.
Faith was a cornerstone of Mr. McClellan’s life. He was a devoted member of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, where he found fellowship, comfort, and purpose. Whether he was attending services, lending a helping hand, or simply offering a warm smile, he was a steady presence in his church family.
Mr. McClellan’s life was also touched by deep personal loss. He was preceded in death by his son, Dennis Martin, his great-grandchild, Elijah Maund, and his sister, Diana Jiron. Though these losses weighed heavy on his heart, he carried their memory with grace and continued to live a life that honored their legacy.
He will be remembered not just for his military service or community involvement, but for the way he treated people—with kindness, humility, and a quiet dignity. Mr. McClellan was the kind of man who made you feel seen, heard, and valued. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the stories he shared, and the love he gave so freely.
Surviving relatives include his wife, Donna McClellan, Ozark; his children, Richard Martin, Chipley, Florida, Karen Page, Daleville, Robert McClellan, Alabaster, Michael McClellan (Courtney), Ashbury, Massachusetts, Christiana Miller (Kyle), Monument, Colorado, Jackie Lynn Land (Zach), and Rhianna Pence, all of Ozark; sister, Linda Gillis (Al), Spokane, Washington; eighteen grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren; daughter-in-law, Robbie Martin, Ozark; brother-in-law, Frank Jiron, Annandale, Virginia; nieces, nephews, and cousins.
You may sign a guest register at www.fuquabankston.com
