JERRY McLAIN

Jerry Wayne McLain, 71, beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, of Staunton and formerly of Craigsville, passed away in Roanoke and entered the Kingdom of Heaven on Friday, Aug. 29, 2025, to begin his eternal life. 

Mr. McLain was born in Staunton on Sept. 4, 1953, son of Leroy McLain and Edith McLain.

Jerry spent most of his life working as a tree climber and tree trimmer, a profession that reflected both his strength and connection to nature.

From a young age, Jerry had a deep love for sports. That passion continued into adulthood as he played in the Staunton men’s softball city league and competed in tournaments across the state. He was a proud former member of the Staunton Moose, playing several years on their sponsored teams. Jerry also gave back to the community by coaching Little League baseball for the Craigsville Ruritan.

Music was another lifelong passion. In his younger years, he played drums in a band, and throughout his life, he could often be found outdoors, working on projects with the radio playing his favorite tunes.

Jerry was an avid outdoorsman whose love for nature never faded. He found peace and joy in hunting, fishing, and mushroom hunting — and especially in the quiet solitude of the woods. He always looked forward to the visits from the “guys on the mountain,” forming lifelong friendships and memories that spanned generations. Some of his proudest moments came from watching his children and grandson harvest their first deer or catch their first trout.

He loved planting and tending to his garden and took pride in sharing the harvest with others. He also enjoyed mowing, landscaping, and riding his tractor—simple pleasures that brought him happiness.

Over the years, Jerry had a special fondness for his cars, including a cherished Pontiac Lemans and a Monte Carlo.

Above all else, Jerry was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He worked tirelessly to provide for his family and instilled in them the values of hard work, authenticity, and generosity. He often gave up his own comforts so others could have more and was always ready to lend a helping hand. His love for his family shaped everything he did. Seeing them succeed and grow brought him immense joy.

As children, we knew our father wasn’t a man of many words—but when he spoke, we listened. He had a quiet wisdom, always guiding us with trust and support. Whether in moments of joy or in life’s storms, we knew he would be there. Together with our mother, he gave us not just a home, but a safe haven. He will forever be remembered as the greatest man we’ve ever known and loved.

As a husband, Jerry was a simple man with an enormous heart. He was everything—wonderful, strong, steady, and kind. He was my best friend and my rock. We were like two peas in a pod, sharing a rare and beautiful connection that few ever experience. He loved deeply—his Lord, his wife, his children, his grandson, and his great-granddaughter. Watching them grow and thrive was his greatest reward. It was my greatest honor and blessing to be his wife. I will love him forever and ever.

Even through the battles and obstacles he faced, Jerry showed unwavering courage, strength, and faith.

In addition to his parents, Mr. McLain was preceded in death by two brothers, Bobby McLain and Roger McLain; and a sister, Helen Jane Woods.

Surviving is his dedicated, loving wife and soulmate of 46 years, Gail (Mutispaugh) McLain; his beloved children, his son, Jerry McLain and his fiancée, Janis Hatcher and daughter, Lesley McLain; grandson, Dwayne Fridley and his wife, Amanda; great-granddaughter, Charlotte Fridley. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, and his special companion, Noah.

The family will receive friends from 6 until 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 9, at Coffman Funeral Home and Crematory and other times at their residence. 

A celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 10, in the Coffman Funeral Home Chapel by Pastors Ronnie and Kevin Harris.

Burial will follow in Craigsville Community Cemetery. 

Active pallbearers will be Dwayne Fridley, Stanley Mutispaugh, Wes Cash, Jamie Staton, Robbie Woods and Ron Sprouse.

It is suggested that those desiring make memorial contributions to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-1942 or the Cancer Research Institute, 29 Broadway, Floor 4, New York, NY, 1006-3111.

Coffman Funeral Home and Crematory, 230 Frontier Drive, Staunton, is in charge of his arrangements. 

Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.coffmanfuneralhome.net.