Malik Elijah

Izell Mcclenton

Malik Elijah Izell McClenton, 38, of Paterson, New Jersey, passed away on October 25, 2025. He was born on November 2, 1986, in Teaneck, New Jersey, to the late Darryl Kenneth McClenton Sr. and the late Cynthia Denise Smith. Malik grew up in New Jersey and spent most of his life between Teaneck, Englewood, Hackensack, Wallington, Garfield, and Paterson, as well as a period in South Carolina. He was known for his sense of humor, quick wit, and ability to make people laugh, even in difficult moments. Malik's journey was not easy. He faced many challenges and carried both light and darkness throughout his life. Those who knew him well understood his complexity and will remember him in their own way for his laughter, jokes, flaws, religious beliefs, and lessons.

He worked in management, driving, cooking, and most recently built a small transportation and junk-removal business. Malik was proud to work for himself and took pride in the effort it took to create opportunities on his own terms. Music was a constant part of his life. He loved old-school R&B, wrote and performed his own raps, and often shared moments of laughter and conversation with his close friends Mark and Kyle. He enjoyed Jeopardy and playing Mortal Kombat, and he was loyal to his favorite team, the New York Knicks.

He leaves behind his son, his greatest accomplishment and the one he loved most deeply, King McClenton-Pantoja, whom he shared with Christina Pantoja; his siblings Sharnell, Darryl, Zanaya, and Yahmyra; along with four nieces, four nephews, and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family.

Though Malik's path was not without hardship, his life reminds us that every person carries both struggle and strength, and that love remains even after loss.

May his spirit be at peace in The Creator's care.