Walter Stanley McLain

1/24/1949 – 6/19/2026

Walter Stanley McLain, known to most as Stan, and affectionately called Granddaddy by those closest to him, passed away on June 19, 2026, at the age of 77. He was a resident of Hattiesburg, Mississippi, and a man whose warmth, generosity, and a genuine love for people left a lasting mark on everyone he met.

Stan was born on January 24, 1949, in Bay Springs, Mississippi, and later adopted at the age of 11, by Dr James L. McLain of Tylertown, MS. Stan served in the United States Air Force, stationed at Goodfellow Air Force Base in San Angelo, TX, and at Chicksands Air Force Base in Bedfordshire, England. Following his military service, he went on to work for the United States Postal Service, where he was known as a reliable and friendly presence in the community.

Stan married the love of his life, Donna Dillon McLain, and together they built a family that was the center of his world. He was the proud father of two sons, Scott Raymond McLain and Benjamin (Benji) Lad McLain, and nothing brought him more joy than talking about his children and grandchildren. He could strike up a conversation with anyone, anywhere, and within minutes he would be pulling out stories about his family. Stan truly never met a stranger.

Beyond his family, Stan was a man of many passions. He was a talented guitarist and songwriter who loved making music. He was also a natural tinkerer and craftsman, always working on something with his hands. He was a creator at heart, always building, always making, always pouring a little bit of himself into everything he touched. His generosity extended to everyone around him, and his loving nature made him not just a wonderful family man but a cherished friend to many.

Stan is survived by his devoted wife, Donna Dillon McLain; his sons, Scott McLain (Laurie) and Benji McLain; Dana McLain, a cherished member of the family; and his beloved grandchildren, Jackson Scott McLain, Katelyn Avery McLain, Allie Rae McLain, Claudia Perret Moran (Alex), Virginia Theresa Perret; and one great grandchild, Alex Hunter Moran, Jr. He was preceded in death by his father, Dr. James L. McLain.

A service celebrating Stan's life will be officiated by Bishop Jerry Wayne Dillon, a longtime friend. His family takes comfort in knowing he is at peace in the arms of the Lord. Stan's light will not be forgotten. He loved big, laughed often, and left this world a better place than he found it. Stan, you will be deeply missed, but never forgotten. We will always love you!

A visitation will be held for Stan at Capps Funeral Home, 270 Old Hwy. 98, Tylertown, MS 39667 from 1:00 PM until service time at 2:00 PM on Friday, June 26, 2026 with Rev. Jerry Wayne Dillon officiating. Interment will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens.