James Lee McClain, Sr., age 76, Skidmore, Missouri, died January 30, 2017.
James was born April 8, 1940 in Maryville, Missouri, the son of James (Jr.) and Eva (Dots) McClain.
James joined the United States Army at the age of 16 and is where he acquired his love for driving a truck. After leaving the service he worked at Powell Feed and a service station in Kansas City.
While in Kansas City he later started trucking for Apple Lines based out of Madison, South Dakota. After driving for Apple Lines he drove for Newton Brothers and Kneil Farms, both in the Skidmore area. There he hauled cattle across the United States. After a decline in the cattle business he started driving for Koch Truck Lines of Sabetha, Kansas. He retired from Koch Truck lines after several years of service.
James loved seeing this great country while doing his job. He also enjoyed stopping at all the various truck stops to visit with other drivers. James never knew a stranger.
James enjoyed going fishing, building models and playing cards in his spare time.
He was preceded in death by his parents, son Todd McClain and a brother Jack McClain.
His survivors include his children, Tracie McClain, Kansas City, Missouri, James Jr.(JoAnn) McClain, Tarkio, Missouri, Travis McClain, Maryville, Lisa (Lamar) Watson, Stanberry, Missouri, and Samuel McClain, Maitland, Missouri, ex-wives Donna, Erma, Mimi, Sharon and Tammy; several grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Graveside memorial services and inurnment were held at 2 PM, Saturday, February 11, 2017 at the Hillcrest Cemetery in Skidmore, Missouri. The Rev. Danny Johnson officiating.
Service arrangements by Schooler Funeral Home, Fairfax/Craig.
James Lee McClain Sr.
February 15, 2017