John McCain’s eldest son, Douglas, dies at 66, family confirms

Douglas McCain, the oldest son of Arizona’s longtime U.S. Senator John McCain, died on Wednesday at 66 years old.

“I am deeply saddened to share the news of my brother Doug McCain’s sudden passing,” his sister Meghan McCain wrote on social media. “He was a truly wonderful, joyful man who supported me throughout my life. He brought humor, fun and great conversation to every room. I will cherish our memories together.

“Our prayers are with his wife, Ashley, and children, Caroline and Shepp.”

According to his obituary, Douglas McCain died suddenly. He spent several years as a Navy pilot, following in the footsteps of his father who spent over two decades in the Navy, before joining American Airlines.

Private services are expected to be held for the family ahead of a memorial service in Virginia on Saturday.

Arizona leaders react to Douglas McCain’s sudden death

Reactions started coming in from state leaders upon the McCain family’s confirmation of Douglas’ death.

U.S. Rep. Andy Biggs, who represents Arizona’s 5th congressional district, recognized on social media everything that McCain was in the time he knew him.

“My prayers are with the McCain family as they grieve the loss of Douglas – a son, brother, husband, father and friend. We appreciate his service to our great nation and hope his memory is cherished by all who loved him,” Biggs wrote.

Jay Feely, former Arizona Cardinals kicker and current Arizona congressional candidate, also said he is keeping the McCain family in his thoughts.

“My family’s hearts go out to the McCain family after the sudden loss of their son, Douglas. He followed his father’s footsteps with honor, serving our nation as a Navy pilot. May his memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved him,” Feely wrote on X.

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