Washington — The McCain family is mourning the loss of Douglas McCain, the eldest son of the late Senator John McCain. Douglas, who was 66 years old, passed away suddenly on May 20, as confirmed by his obituary. His father, John McCain, was a renowned military hero and longtime senator, who passed away in 2018 after battling an aggressive brain cancer.
“I am deeply saddened to share the news of my brother Doug McCain’s sudden passing,” Meghan McCain said in a post on social media Saturday.
Douglas McCain followed in his father’s footsteps to some extent, serving six years in the Navy as a pilot flying A-6 Intruders. After his military service, he transitioned into a career as a pilot with American Airlines. His sister, Meghan McCain, fondly remembered him, saying, “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.”
The McCain Institute expressed its condolences, stating that Douglas will be remembered as “a patriot and friend to the many alumni of Sen. McCain’s Institute, campaigns & Senate staff,” according to a post on social media.
Douglas is survived by his wife, Ashley, their two children, Caroline and Douglas, his mother, Carol Shepp, as well as his siblings and step-siblings. John McCain adopted Douglas after marrying Shepp in 1965. The couple divorced in 1980, after which John McCain married Cindy McCain.
He is survived by his wife Ashley, his two children, Caroline and Douglas, and his mother, Carol Shepp, along with his siblings and step-siblings. John McCain adopted Douglas after his marriage to Shepp in 1965. John and Shepp divorced in 1980, and he went on to marry Cindy McCain.