Two men, one waving and smiling, standing outside a building, showcasing a moment of camaraderie and celebration.

Two men, one waving and smiling, standing outside a building, showcasing a moment of camaraderie and celebration.

Douglas Shepp McCain, the eldest adopted son of the late John McCain, died suddenly on Wednesday at 66-years-old.

Douglas McCain was the eldest of the late senator’s seven children.

Born to Carol Shepp McCain during her first marriage, Douglas was adopted by John McCain in 1966 after the politician and his mother were married.

Douglas McCain kept a low public profile compared to some of his siblings but was widely described by family and friends as warm and generous.

The deceased’s stepsister, Meghan McCain, announced his passing in a post on Instagram.

“I am deeply saddened to share the news of my brother Doug McCain’s sudden passing,” the former The View co-host wrote. He was a truly wonderful, joyful man who supported me throughout my life. He brought humor, fun and great conversation to every room. I will cherish our memories together. Our prayers are with his wife Ashley and children Caroline and Shepp.”

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Meghan McCain (@meghanmccain)

Douglas’ obituary states:

Douglas Shepp McCain died suddenly on May 20, 2026. Doug was born on October 4, 1959, in Pensacola, FL. He grew up in Jacksonville, FL, enjoying surfing, baseball, and soccer. He graduated from Jacksonville Episcopal High School in 1977. He went to the University of Virginia (go Hoos!), where he majored in Systems Engineering, pledged SAE, participated in Navy ROTC, and luckily met his future bride, Ashley. After graduating in 1982, he joined the Navy to learn to fly. He spent six years flying A-6 Intruders before beginning a long career with American Airlines, where he excelled and found work he truly loved, especially after making captain.

Doug could always be counted on to tell you what he knew and, more often than not, explain why he was right. He secretly loved his “World Book” nickname and hated that Google eventually put him out of business. He enjoyed golf and was very proud to hold the McCain family record of three holes-in-one. He was a loyal friend to many and cherished each and every friendship. He was a devoted son, a loving father to Caroline and Shepp, and most recently found great joy in being Teddy’s grandfather. Doug will be remembered for his generous heart, his loyal friendships, and his unwavering love for his family. He will be dearly missed by those close to him.

His cause of death has not been made public.

The McCain Institute wrote in a post on X:

“We extend our condolences to the McCain family following the passing of Douglas “Doug” Shepp McCain, the eldest son of John McCain. 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.”

The post John McCain’s Eldest Son Dies Suddenly at 66 appeared first on The Gateway Pundit.