by Karen Murray, National Communications Director

It is with regret that we announce the passing of long-time Constitution Party member from Florida, Jack McLain. Jack, and his wife Lois, were an inseparable duo, and faithfully worked to build the Constitution Party both in their state and at the national level, having served as National Committee members for many years.   Jack was also the author of a book, “Which Way America?” and a newsletter entitled “Viewpoint”, in which he examined the issues facing American from a biblical and constitutional point-of-view.

John “Jack” McLain, 88, of Jupiter, Florida, passed away Saturday, July 25, 2015. Jack was born in Stratford, New Jersey on August 21, 1926 to James and Dorothy McLain. He graduated from Haddon Heights High School, Rutgers College and Tennessee Temple Seminary. Jack loved his Lord and his Country. Jack served in the U.S. Army and ran for the U.S. Congress in 2002 and 2004. He is survived by his wife, Lois; daughters, Gail Johnson of Rochester, New York and Joanne Costello of Orlando, Florida; step-children, Karen Shade of Chesapeake, Virginia and John Pangaro of Prattville, Alabama; and seven grandchildren. He is predeceased by his parents; brothers, James McLain and David McLain; and a grandson, Benjamin Johnson. Jack is interred in South Florida National Cemetery.

Constitution Party of Georgia State Chairman Ricardo Davis, in his role as Southern States Area Chairman for the national Constitution Party, was well-acquainted with Jack and wrote this wonderful tribute to a great Christian Patriot:

“Our fellow patriot Jack McLain, Florida State Party Vice-Chairman, stepped off the field of this life and stepped into eternity in the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ on Saturday morning, July 25th. Jack’s online obituary can be found at the Taylor & Modeen Funeral Home site. I would encourage all who have been touched by his life and work to sign the online memory book. Please pray that the Holy Spirit would comfort his wife Lois and their family and fill their hearts with rejoicing that Jack is now with his Savior.

Jack’s life had been changed by the power of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and it was evident. He had a great heart for people, and he understood that this short life is preparation for eternity. I have been blessed to work with Jack in building the Constitution Party for almost 20 years, and “steadfast” would be the word to describe his life’s efforts. Jack was faithful in the work of ministry at Beacon Baptist Church, and he was a stalwart activist whose faith compelled him to never give up.

Jack’s “Viewpoint” newsletter for Thanksgiving 2013 is illustrative of his steadfast spirit. He noted, “Occupy till I come’ does not mean just to occupy a pew in church once a week, or more. It means ‘to do business’ for the Lord while awaiting His return. Jude wrote, ‘[To] exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints’ (Jude 3). Christians should expect contention and be ready always to defend their faith and freedoms.” Men like Jack have inspired generations to faithful Christian service whether at home, church, or the public forum. A number of Jack’s articles are available at the National Constitution Party’s website in the Our Principles > CP Commentary section.

In the January 2014 “Viewpoint” newsletter Jack wrote:

We believe that America is worth saving! We hope and pray that Christians and patriots will agree and that a great number will become active participants in the cause for survival of our national heritage… We must realize that our voice does count. Our actions count. Our pen is mighty. Our talents and treasures are accountable to God. They are needed to be available by those in the front lines of the battle. There is a battle for the souls of men and there is a battle for the future of our country.

May his legacy inspire us to pray and work to restore the American Republic!