Once a Giant, Always a Giant
John R. Mendenhall, a gentle giant, was born December 3, 1948, to his loving parents, Curtis and Allean Mendenhall Blackmon in Cullen Louisiana.
John's foundation in Christ began at an early age as he acknowledged Christ as his Lord and Savior. He became a member of Holy Temple Church of God in Christ of Cullen, Louisiana, under the leadership of Elder John L. Kirkpatrick. Following his return to his beloved hometown, he became and remained an active member of Greater New Bethel AME Church in Springhill, Louisiana, until his transition.

He married his biggest cheerleader, Stephane, in 1999.
Affectionately known as Big John and Mendy, he attended Charles H. Brown High School in Springhill, Louisiana, graduating in 1966.
Mendy's athleticism was just one of his many wonderful qualities. His scholastic achievements paired with his ability to make plays and lead on the field drew attention from those in the sports area. Actively recruited by Historically Black Colleges and Universities as well as Ivy League Schools, John accepted both academic and athletic scholarships to attend the esteemed Grambling College of Louisiana (Grambling State University). Under the guidance of the legendary Coach Eddie G. Robinson, John strengthened his many skills, preparing him for the next level. These skills and preparation became the conduit leading up to being drafted in the 3rd round into the National Football League by The New York Giants in 1972. According to many reports, John quickly became a fan favorite on and off the field. He was recognized as a Second-Team All-Pro in 1974, and became one of the notable players in the history of the franchise to play at Yankee Stadium, the Yale Bowl, and then Shea Stadium before the opening of Giants Stadium in 1976. He later played for the Detroit Lions before his retirement from the NFL. His induction into the Grambling Legends Sports Hall of Fame in 2013 came as no surprise to the sports world.
Outside of his work in law enforcement, he spent numerous hours of selflessly serving his community, gaining accolades for this work.

John is preceded in death by his father, Curtis Blackmon; mother, Allean Mendenhall Blackmon and brothers, Willie James Cooper, Curtis "Sonny" Blackmon, Jr., Jimmy Wayne White.

Remaining to reflect and cherish the many great memories of their beloved Big John are: his devoted wife, Stephane Mendenhall of Haynesville, Louisiana of 22 years; children, Zandra D. Mendenhall, Kendra Mendenhall McLean (Kyle), Brock Pierre Mendenhall, LaToya Kingsby, and Jassedy Beene Hampton; extended daughter and niece, Kimberly White; grandchildren, DeSedtraus "Isaiah"/"Tray" Kingsby, Sean McLean, Teauna Sanders, Madeline McLean and Bella Hampton; sister, Mary Diane Hayes; brother, Julio Terry; mother-in law, Rosa Cage; former spouse, Mattie Price Mendenhall; nieces, nephews and other loving relatives, friends and the New York Giants fans.