Jerry Floyd McLain, 75, of El Paso, Texas passed away on the 3rd of July, 2025. He was born on the 5th of September, 1949, in Porterville, California, to Lavada Mae Cothran McLain and Alvin Weldon McLain.
He was a wonderful father, grandfather, husband and friend. Jerry was adventurous, loving and kind making sure his children had many experiences traveling, hiking, camping and fishing. Some even chose to go white-water rafting with him. A thoughtful and generous soul, Jerry was always ready to lend a hand to anyone in need. He was quick to laugh, smile, lend an ear and offer a hug. A lifelong learner, if there was something Jerry didn't know how to do, he would simply find a book and learn.
Jerry devoted his working life to service as a member of the El Paso Fire Department. When he began his career, he was the youngest firefighter ever hired by the Department. He earned an Associate's Degree in Fire Sciences and studied hard to rise to the rank of Chief. He retired as Chief of Training in 1994.
Having no problem finding things to do in his retirement, Jerry focused on his love for white-water rafting. His adventures took him down some of the most challenging rivers in the country and beyond, including multiple trips down the Main Salmon River (the River of No Return), the Middle Fork Salmon, Selway, Grand Canyon and journeys to the rivers of Panama. His passion for white-water led him to his beloved wife, Kathy, and they spent many memorable days together on the river. He loved a good game of Hearts played with his friends on a roll-a-table, while camping by the river. Jerry was also an avid enthusiast of war history.
Most importantly, Jerry loved God and believed Jesus Christ was his Lord and Savior. He was a devout student of the Bible and as long as he was able, he studied it daily. Although baptized before, he was rededicated in the Jordan River where Jesus was baptized.
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Alvin Weldon McLain and Lavada Mae Cothran McLain Theman. He is survived by his loving wife Kathy; his children Rick, Mike (Kathy), Amanda (Jesse) Munoz, and Jerry Jr.; step-children Carlos (Veronica) Fuentes, Cynthia (Mauricio) Cano, Derek (Taylor) Swander, and Kyra Swander; mother-in-law Virginia Bernhardt, brother Terry, and cousin Gail (Don) Strickland. Jerry leaves behind a legacy of love in his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind many cherished friends.
Jerry's life will be celebrated with services arranged to honor his memory. Fellow rafters, Jerry will 'eddy out' with those who have preceded him to wait for the rest of us. "Always above Lava."
Condolences may be sent to the family at their home in El Paso, Texas. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Hospice El Paso or Calvary Chapel Sun City.
The family wishes to express heartfelt gratitude to Hospice El Paso for their exceptional care and support during Jerry's final days as well as all the staff of A Mind For All Seasons (Boise, Idaho) for their caring support these last several years.
Jerry's spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
Services for Jerry McLain will be held on July 18th at 2:00 PM at Calvary Chapel Sun City, 960 West Borderland Road. Reception to follow at the McLain residence.
