It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the loss of Dr. Ernest Calvin McClendon, who passed away in the presence of his extraordinary family on August 18, 2025, at the age of 95. Dr. McClendon’s influence on our program and community will forever be remembered as an educator, leader, and friend.

Serving as director of the Carrollton Trojan Band from 1954 to 1968, Dr. McClendon was our 2nd band director in the history of Carrollton High School. During this time, he guided the program through a pivotal era of growth and achievement. His leadership brought higher performance standards, new opportunities for students, and a strong tradition of excellence that continues to shape our band today. Under his direction, the band achieved many firsts, including a performance at the ceremony where Actress Susan Hayward was presented the Keys to the City by Mayor Stewart Martin and the band’s first out-of-state trip to New York City to perform in the Lions Club Parade! His vision and commitment to excellence paved the way for generations of Trojan musicians. With the support of his devoted wife, Doris, he remained an avid supporter of our Trojan Band throughout the rest of his life.

Dr. McClendon’s passion for learning was evident in his own academic journey. He earned degrees from LaGrange College and the University of Georgia, his specialist degree from Auburn University, and his PhD from Georgia State University. His dedication to education extended well beyond music, later serving more than two decades as the principal of Carrollton Junior High School, and with terms as leading Carrollton City Schools Public Relations, Adult/Community Education, and Special Education Departments. He will always be remembered as a strong advocate and partner for education in our community.

Even after retirement, Ernest and Doris remained avid supporters of education, especially the Carrollton City School system. Ernest organized and conducted a community strings program to build community and share his love of music. The sessions were free, open to the public, and often met at his house. The members ranged from beginners to professionals, and frequently, they performed in the lobby of the Mabry Arts Center before our band concerts.
Dr. McClendon faithfully attended football games, band concerts, and booster club events, always encouraging Trojan students and backing the Black and the Gold.

Those who knew Dr. McClendon remember him as a man of integrity, generosity, and talent. His legacy is carried forward through the Ernest C. McClendon Band Fund, which helps future Trojan Band musicians pursue extracurricular music study, such as private lessons or summer camps. 

Dr. McClendon was more than a band director. He was a mentor, a leader, and a community builder. When asked about Dr. McClendon’s impact on him, current band director Dr. Christopher Carr said he will forever cherish his time with Dr. McClendon: “He visited us often and invited me to Kiwanis meetings, drove me around the community while sharing stories of Carrollton’s history, and loved speaking with our students. Sometimes he would be out on a daily walk and just stop by to say hello and check to see if we needed anything. He always ended each visit with, ‘If you need anything, please let me know. I will help you out any way that I can.’”

Dr. McClendon’s love of music extended well beyond the notes and rhythms on a page; his amazing life reflects the relationships, teamwork, discipline, and beauty he crafted and developed throughout his career and beyond. 

The Carrollton Trojan Band remains committed to honoring Dr. McClendon through our daily pursuit of excellence.

In Loving Memory of Dr. Ernest C. McClendon (1930–2025)
Forever part of the Trojan Band family

For more information regarding his visitation and his Celebration of Life, please visit Almon Funeral Home by clicking here.