On July 20, 2026, William Russell McLenon passed away peacefully at the Arcadia Hospice House after a lifetime marked by quiet resilience and personal battles known only to him and his loved ones. Born on January 24, 1962, William’s journey was defined not only by the obstacles he faced, but also by the dignity and strength with which he overcame with the love of his family. In his final moments, he achieved a peace that surrounds him by love and the hope that his rest would bring comfort to those he leaves behind.

William’s life was a testament to enduring spirit and silent courage. From his earliest days, he met the world with a gentle strength that was deeply felt by those privileged to know him. Though the burdens he carried were sometimes invisible, his perseverance was a source of inspiration, especially to his family whose support and affection sustained him along the way.

He is lovingly remembered by his mother, Ola Mclenon, whose unwavering presence was a constant source of warmth and encouragement. Ola remembers Willaim as uncharacteristically social and outgoing, "he never met a stranger." He loved hanging out at the watermelon wheel, mingling and socializing with the farmers and workers. He would tell his family he has "to go to work," and his job was bringing conversation and joy to those he met after a hard day's work. William was also known as a big "flirt" and enjoyed paying the ladies compliments. He would make sure they weren't married first by checking out their hands to see if they were wearing rings. If they were, he admired their jewelry in a respectful way and enjoyed admiring the gems or stones. His bond with his sister, Deborah Summey, was one of profound loyalty and understanding—siblings who together weathered both the ordinary and extraordinary trials that came their way. Deborah will remember him for the love he had for his nieces and nephews. One of the memories she will always cherish is when she used to tease him and say, "you're a monkeys uncle!" and he would respond, "I'm not a monkey!"

The legacy of William’s kindness and love is carried on by his nieces and nephews: TJ; Rachel and her husband Jake; as well as his great-nieces, Elyse and Aria. Each of them holds a memory of an uncle who offered not only warmth and patience but also the encouragement to face life’s challenges with fortitude and hope. 

He is preceded in death by his father, Russell Newton McLenon. Their bond remains unbroken in the hearts of those who remember them both.

Though William Russell McLenon has left this world, his legacy of perseverance, love, and gentle strength endures in those who knew and loved him. The memory of his journey will serve as a lasting reminder that true courage is sometimes quiet, and that even the most silent of battles can leave the world profoundly touched.

William’s family and friends will gather to honor his memory at a memorial service on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the First Baptist Church of Fort Ogden; 6831 Southwest Senate Street, Arcadia, FL 34269. It is here, among those who cherished him, that his life will be celebrated—the quiet triumphs, the loving relationships, and the peace that he ultimately found. 
Immediately following the service, all are welcome to join the family for a fellowship meal at the same location, where stories of William’s life and the bonds he created will continue to be shared. The family asks, if you send flowers, to please send them directly to the church for services.