Wayne McCain

He married his beloved wife Madeline in 1954, and they made Havelock their home in 1975.

Wayne proudly dedicated 30 years of his life to serving his country in the United States Marine Corps. He enlisted in 1946 as a Communications Electronics Radio Technician and retired in 1977 as a Telecommunications Maintenance Chief at the highest enlisted rank of Master Gunnery Sargeant. Throughout his distinguished military career, Wayne answered the call to serve during three major conflicts including World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.

Wayne's courage, exemplary leadership, and unwavering commitment to duty earned him numerous military honors throughout his career. Among his most notable decorations were the Navy Commendation Medal with Combat "V" for valor in combat, the Combat Action Ribbon, the Presidential Unit Citation, the Navy Unit Commendation, and the Meritorious Unit Commendation. He was also a nine-time recipient of the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, reflecting nearly three decades of honorable and faithful service. His service during multiple conflicts was recognized with the National Defense Service Medal, World War II Victory Medal, Korea Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Marine Corps Expeditionary Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation Gallantry Cross.

Wayne dedicated more than 50 years of his life to serving youth and strengthening his community through the Boy Scouts of America. His passion for mentoring young people and building character was reflected in the many leadership roles he held, including Cubmaster, Scout Leader Trainer, District Commissioner, Head of the Cub Scout Olympics, and Chairman for Overseas Scouting at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan. Alongside Madeline, Wayne helped establish the Croatan Trails District and the Croatan Trails Cub Day Camp, creating lasting opportunities for generations of young scouts. His dedication and service were recognized through numerous honors, including the Governor’s Volunteer Award, the Scouting Silver Beaver Award, and the District Award of Merit.

Following his retirement, Wayne continued his commitment to serving others. Over 41 years, he held several positions at Craven Community College where he continued to support education and his community. He also devoted 43 years of volunteer service to the Havelock-Cherry Point Ministerial Outreach, helping provide food and assistance to those in need throughout the area. Wayne’s life was defined by compassion, leadership, and selfless service.

Wayne is preceded in death by his wife, Madeline McCain. He is survived by his two sons, Michael and wife, Letty McCain and Patrick and wife, Hiromi McCain; four grandchildren, Regina, Kenneth, George, and Kara; and two great-grandchildren, Carsen and Cameron.

Visitation will be held Thursday, August 6 at Annunciation Catholic Church from 6 to 8 p.m. Services will be held Friday, August 7 at Annunciation Catholic Church at 11 a.m., followed by burial and military funeral honors at Forest Oaks Memorial Garden.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Havelock-Cherry Point Ministerial Outreach Food Pantry, 925 E. Main St., Suite 23, Havelock, NC 28532. Condolences may be made to www.cottenfuneralhome.com.

Cotten Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the McCain family.