On Aug. 6, 2024, Richard “Rick” McClain went to heaven after a long battle with dement
He was born March 28, 1943, in Sarasota, Florida, to J. Horace and Anne Kjar McClain and had one brother, Roland McClain. His family preceded him in death.
Rick is survived by his wife, Judith {Julie}, a daughter, Chrissy (Louis) Sanchez; his sons, David and Rick McClain; a granddaughter, Carrissa (Stephen) Mackie; two great-grandsons, Beckham and Dax; sister-in-law, Sally; nieces and nephews in Sparta; and extended family in the United Kingdom.
Rick and Julie would have been married 60 years at the end of August.
Rick was a veteran of the United States Air Force.
He was a music and choir minister in St. Petersburg, Florida, for 33 years. He semi-retired and moved to Sparta, in 1998. He was blessed with a beautiful baritone voice that he never hesitated to use to glorify his beloved Jesus and Lord.
He was song leader and soloist at Cherry Creek Baptist Church, in Sparta, until he could no longer sing and perform his platform duties.
Rick was also an avid soccer player and loved to watch European and English competition. He coached recreational youth soccer for 25 years, in Florida, leading his teams to state championships. He also coached high school soccer for a while in Sparta.
Rick was also an avid motor racing enthusiast and amateur car mechanic. Along with Rick, his son, he raced at local racetracks and loved every moment.
A memorial gathering will be 4:30-6 p.m., Aug. 22, at Oak Lawn Funeral Home. Pastor Bobby Moore will officiate.
In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to White County Humane Society, 5600 Gum Springs Rd., Sparta, Tennessee 38583 or to The Gideons Society at your church.
Oak Lawn Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
