February 18, 1937  –  September 6, 2024

Lawton, OK

James Hillman McClain, a cherished patriarch, decorated veteran, and pillar of his community, passed away peacefully on September 6, 2024, in Lawton, Oklahoma. Born on February 18, 1937, in Philadelphia, Mississippi, to Hillman and Ruby Ruth (Eaks) McClain, both of whom predeceased him, James lived a life marked by deep love, service, and simple joys.

James’s journey through life was one of remarkable dedication and achievement. A proud high school graduate, he went on to serve his country with distinction in the U.S. Army. His military career was decorated with numerous honors, including the Bronze Star, Presidential Unit Citation, Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with six stars, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Drill Sergeant Identification Badge, four Overseas Service Bars, and the Army Commendation Medal with First Oak Leaf Cluster. After retiring from the military, James embarked on a second career with the Goodyear Tire Company, where he continued to exhibit the same steadfast work ethic and commitment to excellence.

James’s life was a testament to his loving, kind, and passionate nature. He was a devoted husband to his late wife, June McClain, and a supportive father to his children, Lori Lafontaine and Robert and Eddie Smart. However, it was in raising his granddaughters Melissa Geionety and Nikki Braden as his own that James found his greatest joy and accomplishment. They were the apple of his eye, and he instilled in them the same values of love and integrity that he lived by.

His legacy extends to his grandchildren, Melissa Geionety, Nikki Braden, Candace Frederick, Dondi Redelk, and Miranda Smart, and his cherished great-grandchildren, Tyler, Parker, Hadleigh Braden, Owen, and Roman Geionety. The family circle also includes his great-grandson Gatlin Geionety, who predeceased him, and a brother who passed before him. Each member of his family benefited from his wisdom, warmth, and the unwavering support that he provided throughout his life.

James took great pleasure in the simple things—his love for yard work was matched only by the love he held for his family. His hands often found tending to his garden or fixing something around the house, were a symbol of his nurturing spirit and his ability to cultivate beauty and stability in his environment.

In reflecting upon a life well-lived, one is reminded of the words of Helen Keller: “What we have once enjoyed we can never lose; all that we love deeply becomes a part of us.” James’s love and the lessons he imparted are deeply woven into the fabric of his family’s lives. His influence will continue to guide and inspire them, just as the values he championed will endure in the memories of all who knew him.

James Hillman McClain’s story is one of love, service, and the quiet strength that underpins the most impactful lives. His was a life lived with purpose and grace, and his memory will be treasured by all who were fortunate enough to know him.

As we bid farewell to this remarkable man, we celebrate the enduring impact of his love and the indelible mark he has left on the hearts of his family and friends. James Hillman McClain’s legacy is one of love, honor, and the profound simplicity of a life dedicated to family and country. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Visitation was held Wednesday, September 11, 2024, from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. at Whinery-Huddleston Funeral Service.

Graveside service with full military honors was held at 2 p.m. at Fort Sill National Cemetery in Elgin, Oklahoma.