Douglas Shepp McCain, the eldest son of the late U.S. Senator John McCain, passed away unexpectedly on May 20, 2026, at the age of 66. His family confirmed the heartbreaking news, highlighting his commitment to family and a distinguished career in naval aviation and airline piloting.
McCain graduated from Jacksonville Episcopal High School in 1977 before attending the University of Virginia. There, he majored in systems engineering, engaged in Navy ROTC, and met his future spouse, Ashley Jardine, with whom he graduated in 1982.
After university, he joined the U.S. Navy, serving as a pilot for six years flying A-6 Intruder aircraft. Upon completing his service, he embarked on a successful career with American Airlines, where he eventually became a captain.
He was adopted by the late senator following John McCain’s marriage to Carol Shepp McCain in 1965. John McCain, a naval aviator and Vietnam War POW, also served as the U.S. senator from Arizona and was the Republican nominee for president in 2008.
We extend our condolences to the McCain family following the passing of Douglas “Doug” Shepp McCain, the eldest son of John McCain. A Navy pilot like his father, Doug will be remembered as a patriot and friend to the many alumni of Sen. McCain’s Institute, campaigns & Senate… pic.twitter.com/7qN8VrltAs
— McCain Institute (@McCainInstitute) May 23, 2026
“Doug could always be counted on to tell you what he knew and, more often than not, explain why he was right. He secretly loved his ‘World Book’ nickname and hated that Google eventually put him out of business. He enjoyed golf and was very proud to hold the McCain family record of three holes-in-one,” shared his family in a statement.
He was a loyal friend to many and valued each friendship deeply. As a devoted son and loving father to Caroline and Shepp, Doug derived immense joy from being a grandfather to Teddy. His generous spirit, steadfast loyalty, and deep love for his family will be profoundly missed by all who knew him.
McCain is survived by his wife of 40 years, Ashley Jardine McCain; his daughter Caroline McCain Hendrickson and her spouse Emily; his son Douglas Shepp McCain Jr. and his spouse Ellie, along with their grandson Teddy.
