Norma Jean McClain

Norma Jean Matthews McClain, 91, of Versailles, Kentucky, entered her Heavenly home on August 30, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. A lifelong native of Versailles, she was born April 20, 1934, to the late George Matthews and the late Josephine Barnes Matthews (Lester) Johnson. Norma graduated from Versailles High School in 1952 and worked at the University of Kentucky for a short time before starting her lifelong career as a homemaker as well as serving as secretary for the family business, McClain Heating and Air, until she and John retired in 2003. She was married in 1951 to her soulmate, the late John W. McClain; and together they shared more than 70 beautiful years of marriage, raising six children and building a life centered on faith, family and love. Norma dedicated her life to serving the Lord and her church family. She began her devoted journey with Christ at Glen's Creek Baptist Church where she served as a Sunday School teacher as well as Director for Vacation Bible School for many years. She later became a devoted member of Versailles Baptist Church, where she poured her heart into teaching the Ruth Sunday School Class until her passing, and faithfully serving in the Martha Murphy WMU as secretary and treasurer. She was also active as a 4-H leader and lived out her faith daily through her love, encouragement, and unwavering devotion to others. Norma's talents were many-she sewed clothes for her children, enjoyed traveling with John and never turned down a good game of dominos or farkle, often emerging the champion. Yet her greatest joy in life came from time spent with her family, especially her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were the treasures of her heart.

Norma will be lovingly remembered by her children, Alan Wesley (Gloria Jean) McClain of Versailles, Denise Gail (Walker) Hatton of Indiana, Dena Carol (Gary) Coffey of Versailles, Karen Jean (Glenn) Boens of Lexington, Sandra Lynn (Wade) Fathergill of Lancaster, and Beverly Ann (John) Walling of Versailles; her sister-in-law, Ethelwyn Matthews; sister-in-law, Alene McClain; her grandchildren, Mac (Carrie) Hatton, Amy Coots, Matt Coffey, Steve McClain, Neal (Danielle) Fathergill, Tracie Fathergill, Nick (Allie) Walling and Kris (Makenzi) Walling; nine great-grandchildren with one on the way; a special cousin, Ann Matthews Gaunce; as well as several beloved nieces and nephews. The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Judy, Kristy, and Cayla for their generous and loving care of "Mom" and "Granny" during her final days. In addition to her husband and parents, Norma was preceded in death by her brother, James Douglas Matthews; her granddaughter, Tara Beth McClain; her great-grandson, Ozzy Coots; and her son-in-law, Gary Coffey.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, September 3, 2025, from 5:00 pm until 8:00 pm at Blackburn & Ward Funeral Home, 161 Broadway Street, Versailles, Kentucky. Funeral services will take place Thursday, September 4, 2025, at 12:30 pm at the funeral home, following a visitation beginning at 11:30 am. Pastors Dr. Connor Alford and Jonathan Berry will officiate. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Pallbearers are Mac Hatton, Matt Coffey, Neal Fathergill, Nick Walling, Kris Walling and John Walling. Honorary Pallbearers are Steve McClain, Amy Coots and Tracie Fathergill.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Versailles Baptist Church. Family and friends are encouraged to share memories and messages of condolence on Norma's tribute wall at www.BlackburnandWard.com