Meghan McCain is paying tribute to the life of her beloved brother, Douglas McCain, following his untimely passing at the age of 66. The former "The View" panelist shared her heartfelt condolences and honored his legacy, expressing her profound sadness at the loss of her brother.
"I am deeply saddened to share the news of my brother Doug McCain's sudden passing," Meghan wrote on May 24. "He was a truly wonderful and joyful man who supported me throughout my life. He brought humor, fun, and great conversation to every room. I will cherish our memories together."
She added, "Our prayers are with his wife Ashley and children Caroline and Shepp."
According to an online obituary, Doug passed away "suddenly" on May 20. He was a former Navy pilot who grew up in Jacksonville, Florida, before attending the University of Virginia, where he majored in Systems Engineering. After graduating in 1982, he joined the Navy and learned to fly A-6 Intruders before embarking on a long career with American Airlines, eventually becoming a captain for the company.
In a previous interview, Doug shared his insight into his upbringing as the eldest child of John McCain, who was also a father to Andrew McCain, 64, and Sidney McCain, 59, with ex-wife Carol Shepp, as well as Meghan, 41, John McCain IV, 39, James McCain, 37, and Bridget McCain, 34, with wife Cindy McCain.
"It was just different, it took some time getting used to," he said in the 2018 documentary "John McCain: For Whom The Bell Tolls." "I have a good relationship with Cindy, as do my brother and sister. And I have a good relationship with Meghan, Jack, Jimmy and Bridget. We're not extraordinarily close, but if I ever need something, I know how to reach them."
He recalled his childhood as filled with "normal things that fathers and sons and kids do," growing up in a community of Navy pilots and their families. "There were a gazillion kids around, so they tended to kind of rotate in and out because people were always getting transferred. There was just a lot of fun things to do."
While Doug was known as a great pilot during his lifetime, he will be remembered as an even better family man.
"He was a loyal friend to many and cherished each and every friendship," the obituary read. "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," it continued. "He will be dearly missed by those close to him."
