John McCain’s Eldest Son Passes Away At 66
Douglas Shepp McCain, the eldest son of the late U.S. Senator John McCain, died suddenly on May 20, 2026, at the age of 66. His family announced the news in the days following, describing him as a devoted family member with a career in naval aviation and commercial airline piloting.
McCain graduated from Jacksonville Episcopal High School in 1977 and attended the University of Virginia. There, he majored in systems engineering, participated in Navy ROTC, and met his future wife, Ashley Jardine. He graduated from the university in 1982.
Following graduation, McCain entered the U.S. Navy and served for six years as a pilot flying A-6 Intruder aircraft. After completing his military service, he joined American Airlines, where he built a long career and eventually became a captain.
He was adopted by the late senator after John McCain married Carol Shepp McCain in 1965. John McCain, a naval aviator and Vietnam War prisoner of war, later served as a U.S. senator from Arizona and was the Republican presidential nominee 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,” McCain’s family said in a statement.
“He was a loyal friend to many and cherished each and every friendship. He was a devoted son, a loving father to Caroline and Shepp, and most recently found great joy in being Teddy’s grandfather. Doug will be remembered for his generous heart, his loyal friendships, and his unwavering love for his family. He will be dearly missed by those close to him.”
McCain is survived by his wife of 40 years, Ashley Jardine McCain; daughter Caroline McCain Hendrickson and her spouse Emily; son Douglas Shepp McCain Jr. and his spouse Ellie, along with their son Teddy.