Meghan McCain confirmed the sudden death of her eldest brother, Doug McCain, who passed away on May 20 at the age of 66. The political commentator and daughter of the late U.S. Senator John McCain shared the news directly with her followers. It marks a quiet end for a man who largely stayed out of the intense political spotlight that defined his famous family.
“I am deeply saddened to share the news of my brother Doug McCain’s sudden passing,” she wrote on social media. “He was a truly wonderful, joyful man who supported me throughout my life.”
She added that he “brought humor, fun and great conversation to every room. I will cherish our memories together,” according to a public tribute and official timeline shared this week.
Doug was the biological son of Carol Shepp McCain. John McCain formally adopted him and his brother Andrew after marrying Carol in 1965. Unlike his highly visible sister and father, Doug built a career far away from Washington politics. He carried on a multi-generational family tradition of military service by flying Navy A-6 Intruders for six years before becoming a captain for American Airlines.
The McCain Institute issued a formal statement shortly after the announcement, noting he “will be remembered as a patriot and friend to the many alumni of Sen. McCain’s Institute, campaigns & Senate staff.”
Following a private family service, a memorial gathering is scheduled for Saturday, May 30, at the Princess Anne Country Club. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Ashley Jardine McCain, their children Caroline and Douglas Shepp Jr., a grandchild, and his mother.