James McMain

James Alfred McMain, age 96, of Erlanger, Kentucky, passed away peacefully on March 24, 2026, at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Edgewood, Kentucky. 

Born on December 19, 1929, to the late Oa Joseph and Elizabeth (née Miller) McMain, Jim lived a life marked by versatility, dedication, and devotion. Throughout the years, he pursued many roles with skill and passion, earning the respect of all who knew him. 

Jim was married to the love of his life, Carol, for 59 wonderful years before her passing in 2015. Their love story did not end there—over the past 11 years, Jim faithfully visited her gravesite every Tuesday, a quiet and steady testament to a lifetime of devotion. 

He had a deep love for travel, especially trips to the beach, with Sanibel Island holding a special place in his heart. But more than anything, Jim lived for his family. A devoted father and proud “Papaw,” he never missed a game, recital, or event. Whether cheering in the stands, or coaching from the sidelines, he was always there. 

Jim was a dedicated parishioner of St. Henry Church in Erlanger and gave generously to causes close to his heart. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Korean War from 1948 to 1952, where he earned several medals of distinction. This was a chapter of his life he held in great honor. 

A man deeply committed to his community, Jim also served as an auxiliary policeman in Erlanger. He generously gave his time to local youth as well, coaching cross country at St. Henry District High School, officiating high school basketball and football games, and volunteering as a Little League baseball coach. In each role, he was a steady mentor, encouraging discipline, teamwork, and a love of the games. 

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Carol McMain; his parents, Oa Joseph and Elizabeth “Pete” McMain; and his sister, Margaret Jacobs. 

Jim is survived by his sons, Michael (Maria) McMain, Bruce (Tina) McMain, and Keith (Kelly) McMain; his cherished grandchildren, Connor McMain, Dillon McMain, Scott McMain, Ashley (Evan) Fickenscher, Michael McMain, Sydney McMain, Erin McMain, Reganne McMain, and Mackenzie McMain; his great-granddaughter, Millie Fickenscher; and numerous nieces and nephews. 

Jim will be remembered for a life fully lived in service, love, and quiet dedication, and for the many wonderful stories he shared that will continue to be told and treasured by all who knew him. 

A visitation will be held on Monday, March 30, 2026, at St. Henry Church in Erlanger, Kentucky, from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., with Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 11:00 a.m. He will be laid to rest at St. John’s Cemetery in Fort Mitchell immediately following Mass.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Henry District High School Boys Cross Country Team (3755 Scheben Drive, Erlanger, KY 41018) or Fairhaven Mission (260 W Pike St, Covington, KY 41011).