HENRY McLAIN

Henry Arnold McLain, 75, of Lexington entered into God’s kingdom on April 20, 2024, at Carilion RoanokeMemorial Hospital after passing away unexpectedly.

Born May 29, 1948, in Lexington, he was the son of Sylvester Abraham McLain, Josephine Zimbro McLain Alderman and stepfather Frank Alderman.

Henry graduated from RockbridgeHigh School and served his country in Vietnam. He worked at a variety of places over the years, including the Rockbridge Farmer’s Co-op, Blue Bird, and Base-X Inc. He even drove the local bookmobile.

Henry was an avid hiker and nature lover. His trail name was Mountain Spirit and he completed large sections of the Appalachian Trail. His philosophy was, “Life is good” and he loved his family and friends. He enjoyed woodworking and renovating his home, including building additions, with his wife’s help. They made a great team. He loved all sports, especially basketball and softball. He often played pickup games and cheered his daughter on from the stands. His wife and daughter were his world. 

In addition to his loving wife Betty of 52 years, Henry is survived by his daughter, Ashley McLain of Harrisonburg. He also leaves behind his sisters Shirley Kern and Margaret Seaman (Jerry); sisters-in-law Helen Higgins and Linda Smith (Billy); brothers-in-law Steve Staton and Bill Bryant (Sandy); numerous nieces and nephews; and his special uncle, Ivan Branch. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Betty Staton, and brother-in-law, Jerry Higgins.

A service will be conducted at Harrison Funeral Home on Thursday April 25, at 2 p.m. by the Rev. George Close. Family will receive friends one hour before service. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to The Appalachian Trail Conservancy, P.O. Box 807, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425 in memory of Henry or Lexington Pentecostal Holiness Church, 406 Houston Street, Lexington, VA 24450.