McCain Family Rocked by Sudden Loss of Naval Aviator Son

Liberty Check

• Doug McCain, eldest son of Sen. John McCain, died suddenly at age 66 — cause of death not disclosed publicly
• Former Navy pilot followed his father’s footsteps in service, later became American Airlines captain
• Family legacy of military service and sacrifice continues to inspire conservative Americans nationwide

The McCain family is mourning the sudden and unexpected death of Douglas Shepp McCain, the eldest adopted son of the late Sen. John McCain. Doug McCain died Wednesday at age 66, according to his funeral home obituary, which did not disclose a cause of death.

Meghan McCain broke the news Sunday morning on social media, expressing deep sadness over the loss of her stepbrother.

“I am deeply saddened to share the news of my brother Doug McCain’s sudden passing. He was a truly wonderful, joyful man who supported me throughout my life.”

“He brought humor, fun and great conversation to every room. I will cherish our memories together. Our prayers are with his wife Ashley and children Caroline and Shepp.”

The McCain Institute also paid tribute to Doug, honoring his service and patriotism.

“We extend our condolences to the McCain family following the passing of Douglas ‘Doug’ Shepp McCain, the eldest son of John McCain. A Navy pilot like his father, Doug will be remembered as a patriot and friend to the many alumni of Sen. McCain’s Institute, campaigns & Senate staff.”

Born Oct. 4, 1959, in Pensacola, Florida, Doug McCain grew up in Jacksonville, where he excelled in surfing, baseball, and soccer. He graduated from Jacksonville Episcopal High School in 1977 before attending the University of Virginia, where he majored in systems engineering and joined Navy ROTC. It was at UVA where he met his future wife, Ashley Jardine.

Following his 1982 graduation, McCain joined the Navy and spent six years flying A-6 Intruders, continuing the family’s proud tradition of military aviation. He later transitioned to a successful career with American Airlines, where he eventually became a captain — a position his family said brought him tremendous fulfillment.

Doug was John McCain’s adopted son from the senator’s first marriage to Carol Shepp McCain. John McCain, a decorated Navy aviator and Vietnam War POW, represented Arizona in the U.S. Senate and became the Republican presidential nominee in 2008. He passed away in 2018 after a battle with brain cancer.

Doug McCain’s obituary painted a picture of a man known for his intelligence, loyalty, and love of family.

“Doug could always be counted on to tell you what he knew and, more often than not, explain why he was right. He secretly loved his ‘World Book’ nickname and hated that Google eventually put him out of business. He enjoyed golf and was very proud to hold the McCain family record of three holes-in-one.”

“He was a loyal friend to many and cherished each and every friendship. He was a devoted son, a loving father to Caroline and Shepp, and most recently found great joy in being Teddy’s grandfather. Doug will be remembered for his generous heart, his loyal friendships, and his unwavering love for his family. He will be dearly missed by those close to him.”

Doug McCain is survived by his wife of 40 years Ashley Jardine McCain, daughter Caroline McCain Hendrickson, son Douglas Shepp McCain Jr., grandson Teddy, mother Carol Shepp McCain, brother Andy McCain, sister Sidney McCain, stepmother Cindy McCain, and stepsiblings Meghan, Jack, Jimmy, and Bridget.

Private services will be held for the family. A memorial gathering is scheduled for Saturday, May 30, at the Princess Anne Country Club in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

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