James Charles McClain

James Charles McClain, affectionately known as “Mac,” was born on January 21, 1950, in Mobile, Alabama, to Lawrence Joseph McClain Sr. and Ruther “Ruth” Mickles McClain. He passed away on March 6, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

One of seven children, Mac grew up in a close-knit household in Prichard, Alabama. He attended Mattie T. Blount High School, where he marched in the band and met the love of his life, Deborah Ann Gibbs. They married on May 29, 1973. He went on to earn an Accounting degree from Dillard University, which led to a long and respected career. After moving to Georgia, James spent the majority of his professional life in management with the City of Atlanta, where he was known for his commitment, steadiness, and integrity until his retirement in 2011.

A longtime resident of College Park and Austell, Georgia, Mac later made his home in Buford. He was a faithful member of Elizabeth Baptist Church and found quiet joy in home projects, travel, time with family, and especially evenings spent watching television with his wife. Above all, he was defined by his strength, generosity, and unwavering devotion to those he loved. A storyteller with a memorable voice and laugh, he taught those around him through example—earning what he had, loving his family fiercely, and carrying himself with quiet dignity and honor.

James is survived by his wife of nearly 53 years, Deborah McClain; his children, Michelle Coleman, Jermaine McClain, and Devin McClain; his daughters-in-law, Rebecca McClain and Nadiene McClain; and his five grandchildren, Maya McClain, Kennedy Coleman, Jalen Coleman, Dylan McClain, and Nico McClain. He is also survived by his siblings, Helen Ruth McClain Orr, Linda Marie McClain Williams, Mary Joann McClain Howze, and Willie Eugene McClain. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Lawrence Joseph McClain Jr. and Defarris “Simp” Moody.