Tom McClain

James "Tom" McClain passed away on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, in his home, surrounded by family.

He was born on June 30, 1942 in St. Joseph, Missouri, to George and Julia McClain.

Tom married Judith "Judy" McClard on June 16, 1968 and they spent 52 blessed years together. Later in life Tom found love again and married Debbie Consolver April 22, 2023 and welcomed her children Amie, James, Jeremy and the entire Consolver family into his life.

Tom lived all his life in St Joseph and was a proud graduate of Lafayette High School, class of 1960.

He was a devout Christian man who had complete faith in his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He enjoyed many years traveling with his family, boating on the Missouri River, camping, and serving on church mission trips to many places including Argentina and Ecuador. Tom loved to play the piano and played for his church on occasion.

Through the years Tom enjoyed serving his community in many different capacities including: Girl Scouts of Mid America board member, SJSD Retired Teachers Association, Board of Directors for the Patee House Museum. He held many different offices as part of The National Camping Methodists camping club including Chaplain and President.

Tom retired from the St. Joseph School District in 2001 after 42 years of service, starting as the district's first technician. He spent the last 30 years of his career as Director of Maintenance where he oversaw the maintenance of 32 buildings and the construction of several new schools.

Tom was known to his grandchildren as the voice of Donald Duck. He perfected the "perforate and separate" method now used by many when buttering rolls. He was well known for his quick-witted one-line jokes. Tom was also an avid shoe and twist tie collector.

He is survived by his wife, Debbie (Consolver) McClain, of the home; son, James "Tom" II (Teresa) McClain; daughters, Camille McClain and Kristin (Jack)Powell; grandchildren; Tommy III (Taylor), Tim (Sarah), Tanner (Danielle), Hayley (Dalton), Trenton (Summer), Nicholas, Saryn, Chase, Brennan and Caden; 12 great-grandchildren; sister, Patty Hoyt; and niece, Elizabeth.

Tom was preceded in death by his wife Judith (McClard) McClain; parents, George McClain and Julia (Walkup) McClain; and grandson Wyatt Allensworth.

Celebration of Life and Public Livestream 1:00 P.M. Thursday, January 29, Family Worship Center, 12293 County Road 438, Country Club Village, MO 64505. Interment Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will gather with friends 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Wednesday, January 28, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. The family suggests memorial contributions to St. Joseph Christian School. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.