John McClain,

John Andrew McClain went to be with his heavenly Father on April 13, 2012, in Tyler. The visitation is scheduled for 1 p.m. on Tuesday, April 17, 2012 followed by services at 2 p.m. at the Stewart Family Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Pike Wisner officiating. Burial will be in Cathedral of the Pines Cemetery, Tyler. John was born September 10, 1924, in Monroe, La., to the late John Andrew Sr. and Amanda Belle Scruggs McClain. At the age of 18, he enlisted in the Army and served our country in the South Pacific during WWII with the 38th Infantry Division. During his tour of duty, John was asked to be a special war correspondent. Following the war, John received a Bachelors of Science from Louisiana State University and was a member of Beta Alpha Psi honorary organization for financial information students. He continued to be an enthusiastic LSU supporter his entire life. Humble Oil and Refining Company recruited him from college. This was the start of a 38 year career with Humble/Exxon Oil Company. During his tenure with Exxon, he served many places across Louisiana, Texas, and Internationally including New Orleans, LA; Houston, TX; and London, England. He was a highly respected business man serving on many boards and committees including President of the Petroleum Accounting Society, International Accounting Standards Board, and member of C.O.P.A.S., Council of Petroleum Accountants Society Inc. in New Orleans, LA. During the time spent in London, John became an avid antique collector and certified with the International Society of Appraisers. He spent his retirement collecting, appraising, and enjoying the thrill of the hunt and history of each piece. While living in New Orleans, John was ordained a deacon at Oak Park Baptist Church and he continued his active Christian life wherever he lived. When he retired in Tyler, he became an active member of First Baptist Church of Tyler and Kiwanis Club. John’s passion for the outdoors was one he enjoyed sharing with the family including hunting and fishing. He took great pride in the 'Farm' and his home of 36 years on Lake Palestine. John was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who treasured the time he spent with his family and friends. He lived his life based on the principles of hard work, integrity, and Christian values. John was preceded in death by his parents and Sister Theo Love. He is survived by his loving family including his wife of 58 years, June McClain of Bullard; daughters, Jamie Valentine and husband Robert of Houston and Julie Edmonds and husband Curtis of Spring; grandchildren, John Valentine of Houston and Katie Whittiker and husband Cody of Little Elm; nephews, Barry Bingham and wife Karen and Brent Bingham and wife Charlotte all of Jacksonville. Pallbearers will be Robert Valentine, Curtis Edmonds, John Valentine, Cody Whittiker, Barry Bingham, Brent Bingham, and Jerry Bellis. Honorary pallbearers will be Ernie Jett, Cecil Girard, and the CIA Sunday School Class of First Baptist Church in Tyler. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Baptist Church, 301 West Ferguson, Tyler, 75701.

John McClain,

September 10, 1924 - April 13, 2012