Douglas Shepp McCain, the eldest son of late U.S. Senator John McCain has died at the age of 66.
According to his family, Douglas died suddenly on Wednesday, May 20. His sister, Meghan McCain, confirmed the news in a heartfelt Instagram tribute, writing that her brother was “a truly wonderful, joyful man” who filled every room with humor and warmth.
Douglas was born in Pensacola, Florida, and was the eldest son of Carol McCain from her first marriage. After marrying Carol in 1965, John McCain adopted Douglas and his brother, Andrew, raising them as his own. The couple later had a daughter, Sidney. Following their divorce, John McCain married Cindy McCain, and they welcomed four more children: Meghan, Jack, James, and Bridget.
Douglas attended Jacksonville Episcopal High School before graduating from the University of Virginia in 1982 with a degree in Systems Engineering. During his time there, he met his future wife, Ashley.
He later served in the U.S. Navy and went on to work as a captain for American Airlines. Although he generally stayed out of the public spotlight, he occasionally supported his adoptive father during political campaigns.
Douglas is survived by his wife, Ashley; daughter, Caroline; son, Douglas Shepp McCain Jr.; and grandson, Teddy.
A memorial gathering was scheduled for Saturday, May 30, at Princess Anne Country Club. The family requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made in his memory to Jacksonville Episcopal High School, the University of Virginia, or a charity of the donor’s choice.
Meghan McCain concluded her tribute by remembering her brother as someone who had supported her throughout her life, saying she would always cherish their memories together.