James Monroe McClain

James Monroe McClain was born in Toledo, Ohio to Alfred and Luvenga McClain on July 1, 1946. At a young age he was baptized in Cincinnati at Bethlehem Baptist Church. Our Dear Father was peacefully called home on January 29th 2025.

He was a friend to everyone he encountered; People would go out of their way to befriend him – truly everyone’s favorite person. James lived the fullest life. He attended Central High School where he played basketball and despite being small in stature, he controlled the pace of the game – utilizing his full repertoire of skills. He loved being outdoors, finding freedom in running – joining the cross country team. Not only did he play basketball, and run cross country – he also boxed, tumbled, and played baseball. He was an exceptional athlete on all fronts.

Once graduating from high school he found his calling in the Military where he was stationed in Mumbai, India at the American Consulate. Whilst in India he met the woman, Anna, who would be the Mother of his three children – Nandita, Anjali, and Maurice. He settled the family in his home state of Ohio in Springfield Township after he retired from the Military with many honors. James joined the Cincinnati Police Department in 1972 and proudly served his city for 31 years. As a police officer, he served as a specialist from 1990 onwards until his retirement. Even after his retirement he was still recognized, being awarded the Buffalo Soldiers Woods and Wanton Chapter Ring of Honor inductee for his outstanding service.

After retirement, Our Father moved to Oviedo, Florida where Pat joined him to build a life in the sunshine state. They were united in holy Matrimony on April 16th 2011 in their backyard surrounded by their loved ones and friends.

There was no one like James. He was a family man, Filled with character, selflessness, and integrity. Our father, who had a radiant smile and a twinkle in his eye would light up every room he entered. He loved us unconditionally and unreservedly. He was proud of us and had no shame in telling whomever was around how much he loved us. His heart was as big as his smile. Our father was loving, kind, brave, smart, insightful, funny, generous, patient, fair, compassionate, empathetic, a great orator and more. More being an amazing chef, grill master, and baker – he could do it all. What was better than his macaroni and cheese and grilled jerk chicken? The only thing better could be his baking, including his pineapple upside-down cake. A true “Superhero” in every sense, as he truly could do anything and everything.

He is survived by his Wife, Patrica Ann McClain Sibings Oprah and husband (William Crooks †) ,( John †) and wife Gail McClain, (Albert David †) and wife (Grace McClain †), Martha Dyson, Sheila McClain, Paul Mcelroy, Cherry and husband Oscar Carson, Brenda and husband Ronald Greenway, Daphne Law, several

Nieces and Nephews and a host of Extended Family and Friends. He leaves behind his two daughters Nandita, and husband Paul, Anjali and one son Maurice. His pride and joy who will feel his absence greatly, his beloved grandchildren, Suriya, Brandon and wife Melissa, Shelby and fiancé Zach, Courtney and husband Brandon. It meant the most to him when the grandchildren called and visited, it filled his heart with pure joy.

Our Dearest Father will be missed by all he loved and all who loved him. We love you Daddy, you will always be on our minds and always in our hearts. We love you forever, Papa. In the words of our Father, “Thank you for choosing me be your Dad”. Daddy, Thank You for choosing us to be your Children. ”Bye Ya’ll, Ciao”.

Not goodbye, but until we meet again, Rest in Peace Daddy.