The Passing of Douglas Shepp McCain, Eldest Son of Late Senator John McCain

Meghan McCain and her family are mourning the loss of her stepbrother, Douglas Shepp McCain. Doug, the eldest adopted son of the late Senator John McCain, died at 66. His sudden passing was announced by his funeral home, though the cause wasn’t revealed.

Meghan McCain expressed her grief on X, stating, “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.” She described him as someone who brought humor and great conversation to every room and will hold their memories dear. Her thoughts and prayers are with Doug’s wife, Ashley, and their children, Caroline and Shepp.

The McCain Institute also shared condolences, acknowledging Doug as a patriot and friend to many connected to the Institute and Senator McCain’s staff and campaigns. Doug McCain shared his father’s legacy as a Navy pilot.

“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.” – McCain Institute

Douglas McCain was born on October 4, 1959, in Pensacola, Florida, and spent his youth in Jacksonville. He graduated from Jacksonville Episcopal High School in 1977 and pursued higher education at the University of Virginia. There, he majored in systems engineering and participated in Navy ROTC, meeting Ashley Jardine, who would become his wife.

After completing his studies at UVA in 1982, Doug joined the Navy, serving for six years as an A-6 Intruders pilot. His career continued with American Airlines, where Doug thrived and eventually became a captain.

Doug was John McCain’s adopted son from his first marriage to Carol Shepp McCain. John McCain, known for his service as a Navy aviator and as a prisoner of war in Vietnam, later represented Arizona in the U.S. Senate and was the Republican presidential nominee in 2008. He passed away in 2018.

Recognized for his intellect and sense of humor, Doug cherished his “World Book” nickname and enjoyed playing golf, boasting three holes-in-one. His obituary noted his unwavering love for family and his many loyal friendships. Doug’s legacy includes his devotion as a son, a father to Caroline and Shepp, and a doting grandfather to Teddy.

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

The family will hold private services. A memorial gathering is planned for Saturday, May 30, at the Princess Anne Country Club in Virginia Beach, Virginia.