Ronald McClelland, Sr.

Ronald McClelland, Sr., Age 73, of Detroit, MI passed away August 18, 2019.

Ronald McClelland Sr. was born on May 5th, 1946 in Chicago, Illinois. He was the eighth child born to Leon and Willie Joe McClelland. Ronald was raised in Westland, Michigan under the care of his Uncle Percy and Aunt Rosalee McClelland.

Ronald was raised in church throughout his childhood. During this time of his life, he made his declaration of faith in Jesus. At the early age of 9 years old Ronald discovered his God given gift and love for all genres of music. At the age of 12 years old, he directed his first youth choir. Ronald graduated from Inkster High School in 1964. Throughout his high school years, in addition to music and choir, Ronald was active in football and theatre.

In 1970 Ronald received his B.S. in Music Education from Eastern Michigan University. While attending Eastern Michigan University, he was honored to be a member of the prestigious acapella choir The Madrigal Singers. In addition, Ronald was granted a graduate scholarship in which he studied music in Austria and London, England. During his college career, on his weekends at home, because of his love for teaching, Ronald would teach piano, organ and vocals to over 50 students.

Following graduation from college, Ronald accepted a teaching position with Detroit Public Schools. Throughout his journey of teaching, Ronald held numerous teaching positions, including Fairlane Christian School, Westland Christian Academy, and later returning to Detroit Public Schools from which he retired in 2004.

In the Spring of 1974 Ronald met “The Sunshine of His Life” Shirley Ann Mack. To hear him tell it, he said the first time he saw her, she was wearing that “enticing” yellow mini skirt. They were joined in marriage on January 25th, 1975. Together they raised 4 wonderful children. Tamiko Joy, (Corey Allen Thomas…His favorite son-in-law!), Ronald Jr., (Rebecca Sanchez Mora), Corey Christopher, and June Ronetta, his “Bugerina”.

As well as a prolific teaching career, Ronald worked for Delta Airlines for 22 years. Ronald was an active minister with his wife Pastor Shirley at Fairlane Assembly of God, Westland Full Gospel and Detroit World Outreach. “Professor” and Pastor Shirley are the Directors of The Seasoned Saints Ministry at Detroit World Outreach. Professor was a great man of faith and prayer. He was a very humble, loving and gentle man. He was a “true worshipper”.

As Professor was worshiping, he made his peaceful transition on Sunday morning, August 18th, 2019 at 7:02 a.m. He was preceded in death by his first-born son, Ronald McClelland Jr. and his grandson Maximus Josiah. He leaves to continue his legacy, his wife of nearly 45 years, Shirley, his oldest daughter Tamiko, son, Corey, and daughter June. Six grandchildren, Caleb (#1), Corey (Bubba), Kyle, Tyson, Kayanna, and Corey Jr. (C.J.). Three great-grandchildren, Camron, Caden, and Ivy Ray. His sisters Anita Johnson (Nene), Dr. Mary Pleas, Christine McClelland, and Alberta Bachelor. As well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, students and friends.

Throughout his lifetime, Ronald acquired numerous master’s degrees in music and education. He was privileged to work and study with Detroit musical icons, Mattie Moss Clark, and the Rev. C.L. Franklin, father of Aretha Franklin.

Professor was a big kid at heart! He loved his sci-fi, Star Trek and most of all his model trains! He is dearly loved and missed by all who knew him. “Bravo Maestro”…Well done!