The widow and family of a Thomasville man who died last week in Afghanistan while serving his country issued a statement delivered by the U.S. Navy.

David Blake McLendon’s wife, Kate, and his family released the following statement:

“Words cannot describe the incredible loss of my husband (our son), Senior Chief David Blake McLendon. David distinguished himself as a man above others. He joined the Navy to serve his country and to make the world a better place for those less fortunate.

  “David made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting the ideals of our nation, while doing a job he loved, and while serving with the people he loved. Although his life was tragically cut short, his spirit will live on in his family and friends, and the brave men and women who served by his side until his passing.”

 McLendon was aboard a military helicopter that crashed in Afghanistan on Tuesday, Sept. 21.

 The funeral is at 2 p.m. Friday at Thomas County Central High School, where McLendon graduated in 1998. Interment follows at Sunset Memorial Gardens on U.S. 84 East.

 Citizens will stand along the funeral procession route and display American flags as the hearse bearing McLendon’s remains passes by.

 A reception immediately after graveside services is at the Best Western Conference Center. McLendon’s family will attend the event.

 Karon Hales, who is assisting in organization of the event, said the public is encouraged to attend the reception to pay their respects and to show support and to honor the community’s fallen hero and his family.

 “They have given the ultimate sacrifice for our country,” Hales said. “I am proud of the tremendous outpouring of the community support in honor of this local hero.”

 A Blake McLendon memorial fund has been established at Thomasville National Bank.

 Donations to the fund will go toward a scholarship fund for local high school graduates.