Ottie Mae McClellan

Ottie Mae Leeper McClellan was born on October 9, 1935, in Antoine, Arkansas, to the late Hermon Leeper and Luvenia GilyardLeeper.

A woman of unwavering faith, she was a lifelong member of Mt. Friendship Baptist Church in Curtis, Arkansas, where she faithfully served as a Church Mother. She attended worship services regularly until her health no longer permitted her to do so.

Ottie Mae was known for her kind spirit, loving heart, and delightful sense of humor. She took great pride in maintaining a modest yet clean home and found joy in the simple blessings of life. She especially looked forward to bright, sunny days when she could enjoy long walks through her community. She loved talking on the telephone, spending countless hours catching up with family and friends. One of her greatest joys was reminiscing with her dear friend, Ellie McClure, as they shared cherished memories of days gone by. She also found comfort in listening to gospel music and, every now and then, enjoyed a little blues music as well.

Ottie Mae was united in holy matrimony to Zannie McClellan, and together they shared many beautiful years of love and companionship.

On Monday, July 6, 2026, she peacefully departed this life at the beautiful age of 90 years. She was preceded in death by her parents, Hermon and Luvenia Leeper; her siblings, Elmer Leeper, Velma Smith, Jennie Leeper and Lena Leeper; her beloved husband, Zannie McClellan; her son, John Leeper; and her grandson, Patrick Leeper.

She leaves to cherish her precious memories her devoted sons, Hermon Leeper (Aundra) of Curtis, Arkansas, and Henry Leeper of St. Louis, Missouri; one loving sister, Dorothy Leeper of Curtis, Arkansas; ten grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; her best friend Ellie McClure of Curtis, Arkansas and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, dear friends, and her beloved Mt, Friendship Baptist Church family.