Lance G. Clemons, born on August 19, 1959, in East St. Louis, Illinois, passed away peacefully on January 5th, 2025. He was 65 years old. Lance was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Arnold Sr. and Winnie Lee Clemons; his sisters, Betty and Debra Clemons; and his grandchild, Prince Kai. His memory is carried forward by his siblings, Arnold Jr. Clemons, Doris McBeath, Beverly Johnson, and Keith Clemons, Karlton Clemons, along with his children: Olivia Bechmann, Zuri Clemons, Lanton Clemons, Stryker Clemons, Journey Clemons, and Rhye Clemons.

Lance’s extended family also remembers him with love, including his nieces and nephews: Jamila, Felicia, Julia, Cecil, Keith Cole, Michael, Jason Young, Raphael, Cornelius, Eric, Shanitta, Tamara, Olivia, Andrea, Katrina, Raymond, and Shakala. He was the seventh of eight children, and the bonds he shared with his family were a central part of his life.

Lance was raised in Philadelphia, Mississippi, where he excelled at sports, particularly football. He was a key player on the 1975 team that won the state championship, a memory he held with pride. He also played baseball, where his strong fielding skills and active bat made him a valuable asset. Lance’s love for sports and the outdoors extended to his passion for fishing, where he spent many peaceful hours in nature.

In addition to sports, Lance had a deep love for kung fu movies and often entertained his siblings by practicing martial arts moves he had seen on screen. His playful nature and sharp reflexes made these impromptu "martial arts sessions" a regular source of fun and laughter in the household.

He graduated from Philadelphia High School, and though he may not have completed a formal degree, Lance’s determination and ambition led him to play football at East Central Community College. His time at the college left lasting memories, and it was there that he began to form lifelong connections.

A gifted musician, Lance played guitar and had a love for music that was central to his life. He toured with the renowned Shabba Ranks, sharing his talent and passion with others. A true free spirit, Lance also found solace in the teachings of Rastafarianism, which shaped his worldview. Known for his infectious smile— a gift from his mother— and a sharp wit, Lance had a dry sense of humor that brightened every room he entered.

Lance’s zest for life, his passion for adventure, and his ability to connect with others will be remembered by all who knew him. He was a wanderer at heart, always seeking new experiences and living life on his own terms. His family will forever treasure his memory, and his influence will live on through the many lives he touched.

A private memorial will be held to celebrate his life. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the family's GoFundMe page to ease funeral costs for Lance’s family.

Rest in paradise, Lance. Your legacy of love, freedom, and joy will continue to inspire and live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing you.