Ida Maud McKinnon Clemons

Ida Maud McKinnon Clemons

Ida Maud McKinnon Clemons, lovingly known as Ida, passed away peacefully on September 13, 2025, at the remarkable age of 99.

Born in Hahira, Georgia, to Hubert “Mac” McKinnon and Sue “Muz” Groover McKinnon, Ida grew up in a close-knit family and was the beloved sister of Pat McKinnon Smith (Jimmy) and Raymond McKinnon (Dorothy Wilkes McKinnon). After graduating from Valdosta State University with a degree in Drama, she moved to Okeechobee, Florida, where she married the late Otis “Pete” Clemons. Together, they raised two sons, Jeff and Todd Clemons, both of Okeechobee, who, along with their families, continue her legacy.

After her children were grown, Ida embraced a new and independent chapter of life. At the age of 50, she embarked on a vibrant and successful career in modeling and acting. A proud member of the Screen Actors Guild, her talent shone across both stage and screen. She appeared in TV and film, as well as brought characters to life across the stages of the Burt Reynolds Theater, Lake Worth Playhouse, and the historic Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, Colorado. She also delighted audiences aboard Norwegian Cruise Line productions, where she portrayed Mrs. Higgins in My Fair Lady. Beyond the stage, Ida found success as a print model, living for a time in New York City’s Upper East Side.

Though she enjoyed traveling and adventure, Ida’s greatest love was to her faith and family. A devout Christian, she sang in the church choir and taught Sunday School for over 50 years at the First Baptist Church of Okeechobee, sharing her unwavering love of Jesus with generations of people.

Ida was especially proud of her growing family. She is survived by her sons and daughters-in-law, Jeff and Debbie Clemons and Todd and Tina Clemons; and her grandchildren, to whom she was affectionately known as “Mommom”: Kit Clemons, Sam Clemons (Lauren), and Casey Clemons (Adrienne), Matt Clemons (Heather), and Audra Clemons. She is also survived by her beloved nieces and nephews, to whom she was lovingly known as “Sissy”: Judy McKinnon Lamphear, Dottie McKinnon Schmick (Don), Ray McKinnon (Marshall), Kim Greene (Cam), and Matt Smith.

Her joy multiplied with the blessing of great-grandchildren: Kit’s children, Ashli and Josh Clemons (Whittnee); Sam’s children, Cole, Owen, Brody, and Wilder; Casey and Adrienne’s children, Crawford and Bronson; Matt and Heather’s children, Paycus and West; and Audra’s twin daughters, Isabella and Olivia. Of all her many roles in life, she most deeply treasured being a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

Her long life was a testament to resilience, grace, adventure, and steadfast faith. She was preceded in death by her parents, Mac and Muz McKinnon; and her siblings, Pat Smith and Raymond McKinnon.

Ida will be deeply missed, but her love and influence will live on in the countless lives she touched.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 11:00am on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at the First Baptist Church of Okeechobee, followed by lunch. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to First Baptist Church of Okeechobee, and/or Hospice of Okeechobee in Ida’s memory.