Elizabeth Juanita McLendon-Stambaugh, affectionately known as Nita, was born February 7, 1939, to Howard Harden and Willie Mae McLendon in Mendenhall, Mississippi. She found eternal peace and passed from this life to her heavenly home on May 23, 2025, embraced by the love of her family. Nita cherished her heritage and held deep affection as the granddaughter of Solomon Augustus and Tinnie Louise McLendon, whose presence remained a comfort in her soul, along with maternal grandparents, Jim and Fannie Williams. Nita was one of six children. She leaves behind two loving siblings, Anatalie Creason of Louisiana and James Hardin McLendon and his wife, Becky, who reside in Texas. Welcoming her into eternal rest are her three brothers, Howard "Harold" McLendon, Joe Gordon McLendon, and Bobby Wayne Wigley. In 1956, Nita married Billy Gene James and they welcomed a daughter, Rebecca "Becky," who with her spouse, Pat Gonzales, reside in Louisiana. In 1963, she married Will Stambaugh and together, they had three children: Dee Alan Stambaugh of Oklahoma, Chawn Stambaugh of Texas, and Shayla and her spouse, Richard Lamb of Texas. She was a proud Nana to nine grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren, including Kyler Turner and Tatum Stambaugh who were called home before her. Nita leaves behind a large number of family members and friends across Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas. She was not only a mother and Nana, but also a friend to many. She had a unique ability to connect with people, leaving a lasting impact on all whom she met. Nita's early life was spent in Mississippi before moving to Lockney, Texas. She spent much of her teen and adult years in Lockney and Plainview. Most recently, she resided in Waskom, Texas. Her life was a tapestry woven with strong southern values and a love for community. She was a devoted member of Glad Tidings Assembly of God and the Tops Club. She found joy in music, dancing, traveling and laughter. She was a strong-minded southern woman, full of tenacity and unwavering spirit. She was an exceptional cook and enjoyed hosting gatherings for family and friends, embodying the warmth of her southern roots. Her children will honor her wishes to be returned home to her final resting place at Mendenhall Cemetery in Mendenhall, Mississippi. There will be a graveside memorial service at Mendenhall Cemetery on June 28, 2025, at 10 a.m. The family suggests memorials to the Mendenhall Cemetery Association.
