Patrick Andrew "Drew" McLean

1978 - 2024

Patrick Andrew "Drew" McLean

December 23, 1978 - October 8, 2024

Black Mountain, North Carolina - Patrick Andrew "Drew" McLean, 45, entered eternal rest when swept away by Hurricane Helene's flood waters. Parents, Ron and Fori, were graciously assisted by local and out-of-state rescue personnel, as well as neighbors who sought to safely locate Drew. Volunteers, friends, family members and strangers prayed. Meanwhile, Drew's sister, Kate, who still had internet service helped from across the ocean.

Drew was born in Charlotte, NC, on December 23, 1978 and attended Mecklenburg County public schools. He was a graduate of Myers Park High School's first International Baccalaureate program. Drew appreciated his classes; Senora Casali's Spanish, Byron Baldwin's photography, Mrs. Goodloe's Literature & Film and all IB classes. Advanced Placement (AP) classes and cherished life-long friends from MPHS, especially Chris, Jonathan and Steve, were never forgotten.

Middle school and high school activities captured Drew's varied interests. He participated on the debate team, won a Scholastic Art award, tied for third place in state-wide pole vaulting, won an oratory contest and starred in local theatre presentations.

Choosing Winston-Salem's NC School of the Arts for university studies allowed majoring in filmmaking. His bucket list of viewing 100 classic movies was achieved.

During childhood Drew accepted Christ as his Savior after his Sunday School teacher explained we're all sinners in need of Jesus Christ as our Redeemer. For 30+ years Drew gravitated towards people with whom Christ's love could be shared, usually by example. He also wrote and spoke about what his Christian faith meant to him.

Throughout his life, Drew's artistic talents utilized various mediums; painting, writing, illustrating and photography. From pen and ink sketching to hand-painting gifts, Drew visions and executed ideas were unique. As an adult, Drew was the youngest person to be honored as Southern Highland Craft Guild's Volunteer of the Year.

Drew admired global peacekeepers and followed their teachings. Great literature, mostly historical biographies, were prolifically read.

His professional years included mentoring church youth in Beaufort, SC and at-risk youth in an outdoor therapeutic program in Tennessee's Cumberland Gap. Additionally, Drew worked at a year-round rustic YMCA-sponsored camp on the banks of the Tippecanoe River in Indiana. Exploring and connecting with nature was an integral portion of his work focus. Mentoring inner-city Charlotte, NC students with Pastor K. Gilliard made a lasting impression on our family.

Preceded in death by grandfathers, Harry H. McLean and T. Ben Massey; grandmothers, Stella W. McLean and Marilyn W. Massey. Drew and Kate were blessed to know two of their great-grandparents, Myrtle J. McLean and Madelaine H. Watson.

Survivors are father, Ron D. McLean; mother, Forest "Fori" M. McLean; sister, Kate McLean; aunt, Pam M. O'Quinn; best friend, Stephen "Steve" Arthur Hallmark and other extended family members.

"But seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." (Matthew 6:33) was Drew's favorite Bible verse.

On October 8, 2024, Drew's earthly body was located in Grove Stone & Sand Company's rock quarry; one death of 250+ residents from six states who tragically died from Hurricane Helene.

"If you feel grief over Drew's passing, may it pass quickly. If you had a part of him in your heart, be warmed by his spirit as he embraced friends and strangers with the same humor and compassion. Celebrate the time he had with you in your own way. He loved everyone he shared time with while he was here. I will carry his memories with me and have comfort in them." -Ron.

Sincere gratitude to FEMA and other federal and state agencies that executed wellness checks and to radio stations' coverage of available resources. Thank you to Mountain Mule Packer Ranch; military and private helicopter pilots; and Ingle's grocery chain. Many power and electrical workers, from multiple states, and countless volunteers are still assisting with continued clean-up efforts. Unsung heroes and heroines - all ages - are helping churches, shelters, nursing facilities, fire stations, neighbors and schools.

Interment will be at Montreat, North Carolina's columbarium. Montreat, a special community to five generations of William Everard Massey Senior's offspring, is where Drew first waded in mountain streams as a child and played among native Rhododendron.

If desiring to honor Drew, please donate to the charity of one's choice. Memorial services to celebrate Drew's life are yet to be determined.

Harwood Home for Funerals & Cremation Services is assisting the family. www.harwoodhomeforfunerals.com.