David Hollingsworth McClain

David H. McClain Obituary

June 4, 1933 - July 4, 2025

David Hollingsworth McClain's final act of patriotism was passing away peacefully on July 4th, a date he held in the highest regard - at his home in Tampa, Florida.

Born in Macon, Georgia, on June 4, 1933, David lived a life defined by service, intellect, adventure, and deep compassion. He is survived by his beloved wife of 30 years, Carroll McClain; his daughter, Linda Aiken of Savannah, GA; and two sons, Collier and Logan Clemens. He also leaves behind four granddaughters, seven great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews: Dan McClain of Dallas, TX; Lynn Stone (Todd) of Tampa and Robert (Melinda) Stuart (Alexis), Kathy, and Elizabeth Anderson of Tampa.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Laura and Joseph A. McClain, Jr.; his brother, Joseph A. McClain III; and his sister, Elizabeth "Betty" Anderson.

A proud alumnus of Duke University (B.A.), George Washington University (MPA, as a Scottish Rite Scholar), and Stetson College of Law (J.D.), David practiced law in Tampa for over 60 years with wisdom and integrity. He served in the U.S. Army with the 1st Infantry Division in Germany and was a lifelong member of the Hillsborough Masonic Lodge 25, a Scottish Rite Mason, a Shriner, and a proud member of the Sertoma Club.

From 1970 to 1982, David served four distinguished terms in the Florida Senate, where he was elected Republican Minority Leader Pro Tempore - succeeding his late father, Senator Joseph A. McClain. His political service also included time as Tampa Assistant City Attorney, Vice Chairman of the Board of Public Relations for the Tampa Convention Center Advisory Council, and member of the Tampa-Hillsborough County Expressway Authority, served as Assistant Treasurer of the Republican Party of Florida. He was a delegate to two Republican National Conventions.

Throughout his time in public service, David championed meaningful legislation, including the Habitual Traffic Offender Act and Compensation for Innocent Victims of Violent Crimes. One of his proudest achievements was advocating for animal welfare - passing bills to ensure the humane treatment of animals and receiving the Humanitarian of the Year Award from the Humane Society.

David's contributions to the preservation of Florida's history earned him the D.B. McKay Award from the Tampa Historical Society for his successful efforts to protect and preserve the Historic Florida State Capitol building which stands today in the 1904 version.

A true Renaissance man, David's passions extended far beyond politics. He was an avid art collector, a country-western songwriter, and a student of history who would have found honor in sharing his passing day with Presidents John Adams & President Thomas Jefferson. He was also the great-grandson of a Confederate war veteran.

David's zest for life could be felt on the racetrack and on the water. A competitive driver in SCCA and IMSA, he won the prestigious Sebring 12-Hour Race in the GTU class and was a class winner at Daytona Speedway. Later, he took to sailboat racing with his beloved vessel, Rob Roy, capturing victories across Florida and the Caribbean - including Captain Morgan Boat of the Year, Suncoast Race Week, Audi Key West Race Week part of the Southern Ocean Racing Circuit and the Regatta del Sol from St. Petersburg to Isla Mujeres, Mexico.

Yet of all his accomplishments, David found his greatest joy in raising his two sons, Collier and Logan.

He was a proud member of The Florida Bar, the Hillsborough County Bar Association, and served on the board of the Tampa Yacht & Country Club.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Lifepath Hospice of Tampa and too his dedicated caregiver, Ivana Small, for their support and love in his final days.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in David's memory to the Humane Society of Tampa Bay or your favorite organization dedicated to the humane treatment of animals.

A private memorial service will be held at sea - a fitting tribute to a man who lived with both dignity and a boundless sense of adventure.