John L. McCain III's Obituary
John L. McCain III, 87, of Lakewood, WA, passed away on February 14, 2026, at home. He was born on December 1, 1938, in Williamson, West Virginia, to John L. McCain Jr. and Floy Beatty.
John proudly played football and completed his bachelor’s degree from West Virginia State College in 1962, in Physical Education. John also served in the U.S. Navy, stationed in Tacoma, WA, where he met his wife, Mathilda. John and Mathilda married in 1970. In 1996, he retired from his position as a Correctional Counselor from McNeil Island in Steilacoom, WA. John will be remembered for his sharp wit, compassionate nature, love for his family, and passion for fitness, in which he often participated in local marathons and completed a good workout at the local YMCA.
Known to everyone as Opa, he was a man deeply rooted in his faith, finding joy in reading scripture and attending church services. When participating in person became challenging, he adapted by joining the livestream every Sunday. Opa’s passion for all things trains and his enthusiasm for technology kept his spirit vibrant.
He is survived by his daughter, Sonja Bell (Ricky); sister, Gloria Brown (Michael); grandchildren, Ronald Henderson, Angelica Mears (Kenneth), Danielle Bell, Nathan Bell, Lynnwood Bell, Andrea Henderson; great-grandchildren, Jaylen Starr, Amya Henderson, Gabriel Henderson, Damian Beckford Jr., Alayah Bell, and Brooklyn Bell; and many other loved ones. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mathilda McCain; father, John L. McCain Jr.; mother, Floy Beatty; niece, Angelica; and nephew, Michael.
A memorial service will be held on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. at The Cove Church, 7912 Lakewood Dr W, Lakewood, WA 98499.
We will always cherish Opa’s unwavering commitment to his family. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.
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