Bradley Fremont McClain

Brad was born in Libertyville, Illinois, in 1955 to Dudley Price McClain and Mildred Marie McClain. When he was eight years old, the family moved to Texas. Shortly thereafter, his father passed away. Brad attended school in Orange, Texas, where he played football under Coach Wade Phillips during his freshman and sophomore years. At the age of sixteen, facing homelessness, he hitchhiked from Orange, Texas, to California—an early testament to the determination and resilience that would define his life.

At seventeen, Brad joined the United States Air Force and began a distinguished career as a jet engine mechanic. During his service, he contributed to the development of the B-1 Stealth Bomber program and helped maintain Air Force One. His military career took him around the world and allowed him to experience countless cultures and destinations.

While stationed in the Philippines, Brad met the love of his life, Elizabeth. After only a few months of dating, they married on July 27, 1974, choosing a lifetime together rather than being assigned to separate Air Force bases. Their journey began in California, where they spent time with Brad's extended family and welcomed two children. Tragically, their youngest son, Tyler Drew, passed away before his first birthday due to complications from Cystic Fibrosis.

The Air Force carried the McClain family across the globe, including assignments in Omaha, Nebraska, England, and Washington, D.C. Along the way, they formed lifelong friendships and created cherished memories. Most recently, Brad and Liz celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with family and dear friends on a memorable trip to Alaska.

After retiring from the Air Force in 1999 while stationed in San Antonio, Texas, Brad continued serving his community through the United States Postal Service and later spent fifteen years safely transporting students as a Northside Independent School District school bus driver.

Brad and Liz made their home in San Antonio, where they attended Zion Lutheran church for more than 30 years. They shared life with their beloved dogs, Vegas and Harper. His daughter, Heidi, and her husband, Daniel, lived nearby, allowing the family to enjoy countless holidays, meals, vacations, and special moments together. Brad was a proud Gramps to Joshua and Elijah and often promised that he would always keep an eye on them.

Brad enjoyed playing poker and faithfully cheering for the Dallas Cowboys, win or lose. Every June, he looked forward to traveling to Las Vegas with friends to participate in World Poker Tour events. He was a man of many talents and interests. Gardening was one of his greatest passions, and he took immense pride in creating beautiful backyard landscapes. Brad was an avid runner and liked to run in marathons to keep healthy and strong. He loved traveling the world with Liz, family, and friends and was always up for a good adventure. He spent many happy hours in his workshop building furniture and crafting unique garden creations.

Brad was preceded in death by his parents, Dudley Price McClain and Mildred Marie McClain; his son, Tyler Drew McClain; and his faithful dog, Vegas.

He is survived by his devoted wife of nearly 52 years, Elizabeth McClain; his daughter, Heidi Head; son-in-law, Daniel Head; grandsons, Joshua and Elijah Head; siblings, Bridget McClain, Brook McClain, Bryn Nesley, and Billy Deneke; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Brad's life was a testament to perseverance, service, loyalty, and love. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Brad's life at a memorial service on July 11, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Zion Lutheran Church. A reception will follow the service.