We celebrate the remarkable life of Delores Elizabeth McClain (Carrow), who passed away peacefully on Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025, after nearly 91 years filled with love, adventure and service. Born in Bucknob, Missouri, one of nine children raised on a small farm near Festus, Missouri, her early life instilled in her a deep love for nature — drawing both animals and people to her gentle, caring spirit.
Delores devoted her life to service, most notably as a volunteer campground host for the U.S. Forest Service. For twenty years, she warmly welcomed visitors at Cold Springs, Little Lottis, and other campgrounds along Taylor Canyon, always accompanied by one of her trusted dogs — Atlas, Ginger, Camper, among others. Together with her late husband, Dean McClain, she also co-owned and operated a small beach apartment establishment on Blind Pass Road at St. Pete Beach, Florida from the 1950s through the 1980s. Her warm presence and genuine care enriched the lives of countless campers and renters, inviting them to experience the beauty of the outdoors through her eyes.
Family was at the heart of her life. Not only did she lovingly care for her immediate family — leaving behind her daughter, Leia Morrison of Gunnison; son, Alan McClain of St. Pete Beach; and sister, Mary Audiffred of Pensacola, Florida — but her kindness extended far beyond. Delores was known for caring most about others, offering a helping hand, a warm meal and friendly company to friends, strangers and anyone in need. Her legacy of compassion lives on in her six grandchildren: Logan, Dylan, Coltan, Shaylan McClain and Annabelle and Elle Morrison; her two great-grandchildren, Whalen and Finley McClain; her many nieces and nephews; as well as all those who were touched by her generous spirit.
A lifelong member of the Church of Christ, Delores’s faith was a cornerstone of her life. Her steadfast belief in love, community and service guided her every action and enriched her relationships. By offering kindness to those around her, she demonstrated the true meaning of faith in action.
A celebration of Delores’s vibrant life will be held on a future date on St. Pete Beach, where family and friends will gather to honor her memory. Leia and Daren Morrison, along with Alan and Melanie McClain, also wish to extend heartfelt thanks to the Gunnison Health Hospice team, all of the GVH nurses and doctors, the staff at GVH Physical Therapy, and the many friends who devoted their time and care to Delores over the past few years.
Delores’s adventurous spirit, unwavering kindness and selfless dedication to others will forever remain in our hearts. Though she has left this earthly realm, her legacy of warmth, compassion and love will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her.
