Tarium McClendon, a McNeese State University graduate student-athlete, passed away on February 15th in Louisiana at the age of 30.
Originally from Carlsbad, California, Tarium was born in 1995 to Lamar Davis and Mrs. McClendon, who had become cherished residents of Lake Charles, Louisiana.
His untimely death has deeply saddened the cheerleading community and all those who knew him.
Tarium attended Norco High School and pursued his passion for business management at McNeese State University.
His dedication and talent led him to remarkable success in cheerleading, where he won the 2014 and 2015 Senior Large COED silver and bronze championships.
In 2022, he proudly cheered for the McNeese State University Cowboys.
Even before his collegiate success, Tarium’s skills were apparent when he became a semi-finalist in Cheer Force in 2012.
Beyond his personal achievements, Tarium was a dedicated coach at Lake Charles Cheer Training and South Beauregard Elite, inspiring and mentoring countless young cheerleaders.
He had a unique ability to connect with his students, earning the trust and admiration of the youngsters and their parents.
One parent expressed her gratitude in a heartfelt post, saying,
“TBH when Tarium McClendon told me we were doing all girl this year I was a nervous wreck but after today I’m so glad I trusted him and went with it. Get ready for all this SASS in a little package!!!!”
Via Facebook
Another parent shared,
Tarium’s coaches and teammates remember him as a natural leader who consistently pushed himself to improve while encouraging those around him.
Tarium McClendon’s Death Has Brought Heartbreak To The Community, But His Memory And Impact Will Long Be Cherished
The news of Tarium’s passing has been met with grief and condolences from friends, teammates, and the wider community.
Lamar Davis, Tarium McClendon’s father, announced the heartbreaking news of his son’s passing with a heartfelt message,
‘It’s some hard and troubling times right now. So please, I’m begging please, before you go around repeating something you heard. Just make sure your facts are str8! Let people grieve and regain their strength in peace. You never see or hear us in anyone’s business. So don’t spread false rumors about ours! I say this with all seriousness in my heart and as much peace as I have in my mind. If anything gonna come out y’all’s mouth, please let it be a prayer for us!!!”
Via Facebook
One person tweeted,
Tarium McClendon, you were such a talented and amazing human. I’m so blessed to have met you, and spent the amount of time that I got to spend with you. R.I.P💙
— Dillon Brandt (@DillonBrandt) February 20, 2025
His best friend, Isaiah Earley, expressed his sorrow in an emotional message,
‘Couple days ago found out my best friend Tarium was taken from us way too soon .. I’ve been blocking it out in disbelief but unfortunately I have to believe it. It’s a shock to everyone that you’re gone T, but you were loved and nothing can take the most amazing memories from any of us . We love you Tarium , Rest in peace my friend 🕊️ 🥺🪽”
Via Facebook
While the community mourns and honors Tarium’s life, the cause of his tragic death remains unknown.
Authorities are investigating the situation, and more information is expected to emerge as the investigation progresses.
Marlon Biete McClendon, a longtime friend, and Coach at The California All-Stars, shared an old cheerleading photo on Facebook, announcing that in a touching tribute to Tarium, Louisiana Cheer Force and California All-Stars encouraged those who knew him to wear blue at Saturday practices.
“This Saturday, Louisiana Cheer Force & The California All Stars would like to honor Tarium McClendon by wearing Blue 💙. We invite all who had the pleasure to know him to join us to remember his kind heart & beautiful smile.
Via Facebook
A beautiful soul gone too soon! 🕊️”
This celebrated the enduring legacy of a man whose passion, dedication, and unwavering spirit touched countless lives and will continue to inspire excellence within the cheerleading community.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Tarium was 5 feet 8 inches or 172 cm tall and weighed 75 kg or 165 lbs.
- Tarium McClendon is survived by his parents and grandmother, Rose Epperson.
- McClendon shares a strong bond with his uncle Sylvester Denmond, who lives in Rosepine, Louisiana.
