Meghan McCain’s Stepbrother, Doug McCain, Passes Away Suddenly at 66

Meghan McCain and her family mourn the sudden death of her stepbrother, Douglas ‘Doug’ Shepp McCain, the eldest adopted son of the late Senator John McCain. Doug McCain passed away at 66. His obituary, provided by the funeral home, did not reveal the cause of death.

I am deeply saddened to share the news of my brother Doug McCain’s sudden passing, Meghan McCain shared on social media. She described him as a truly wonderful, joyful man who consistently supported her throughout her life.

Meghan added, He brought humor, fun, and great conversation to every room. I will cherish our memories together. Our prayers are with his wife Ashley and children Caroline and Shepp.

The McCain Institute also expressed condolences to the family, describing Doug as a patriot and friend to alumni of the Institute and Senator McCain’s campaigns and staff.

Doug McCain was born on October 4, 1959, in Pensacola, Florida. He grew up in Jacksonville, where he enjoyed surfing and playing baseball and soccer. He completed his education at Jacksonville Episcopal High School in 1977 and then pursued a degree in systems engineering at the University of Virginia.

While at UVA, he participated in Navy ROTC and met his future wife, Ashley Jardine. Doug graduated in 1982 and served in the Navy for six years, flying A-6 Intruders. He later developed a successful career with American Airlines, where he especially enjoyed his role as a captain.

Doug was John McCain’s adopted son from the senator’s first marriage to Carol Shepp McCain. His father, John McCain, had an illustrious career as a Navy aviator and served as a prisoner of war in Vietnam. He represented Arizona in the U.S. Senate and was the Republican presidential nominee in 2008.

Doug’s obituary highlights his loyal friendships and his family devotion. He leaves behind his wife of 40 years, Ashley Jardine McCain, daughter Caroline McCain Hendrickson, son Douglas Shepp McCain Jr., and grandson Teddy. Other surviving family members include his mother Carol Shepp McCain, brother Andy McCain, sister Sidney McCain, stepmother Cindy McCain, and stepsiblings Meghan, Jack, Jimmy, and Bridget.

Private family services will take place, followed by a memorial gathering on May 30 at the Princess Anne Country Club in Virginia Beach, Virginia.