Herman McClain

HONORING THE LIFE OF

Mr. Herman “Shot” McClain

Sunrise: November 27, 1947 – Sunset: January 30, 2025

Graveside Service & Interment

Date: Friday, February 21, 2025

Time: 11:00 AM

Location: Unity Funeral Home

1215 Leona St., Dothan, Alabama 36303

The family will meet at Unity Funeral Home and proceed in a processional to the gravesite.

OBITUARY

Herman McClain was born on November 27, 1947, in Brooklyn, New York, to Edward and Mary McClain. He spent his early years on Underhill Avenue before the family moved to Howard Houses in Brownsville in 1955.

Herman received his formal education in the Brooklyn public school system and graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School. After graduation, he worked various jobs before embarking on a long and dedicated career in public service. He served as a Peace Officer alongside his Brother John McClain and rose through the ranks. Later, he joined the NYC Department of Sanitation, where he worked diligently for 25 + years until his retirement.

Herman had a deep passion for sports, playing basketball alongside notable athletes and often reminiscing about his time on the courts. Additionally, he was formally trained in martial arts at the Grand Master John Dinkins School of Martial Arts, where he earned his Black Belt. He traveled across America, competing in dojos, earning the respect of his sparring partners, including Mr. David Powell, who often called him "The Giant" for his reach and stature.

Herman found love and companionship with his wife of 55 years, Linda McClain. Their union brought the joy of his only child, cherished son, Haman. He took great pride in his family and treasured time spent with loved ones, especially during holidays, barbecues, and social gatherings.

Known for his charismatic personality, Herman had a way of connecting with people from all walks of life. He was affectionately called “Shot” or “Big Shot,” a nickname given, his Brother Freddy Reminded me and was widely recognized as an original member of Howard Houses. He had a deep love for his old neighborhood, often visiting and reminiscing about the good times and the lifelong friendships he built there.

Herman will be remembered as a kind and supportive man, a mentor, and a pillar in his community.

He always had a story to share, wisdom to impart, and a good word to offer to everyone he met. He was known for his straightforwardness—he spoke his mind with honesty and integrity

Shot pretty much didn’t mix words said what was on his mind straight talk, and real talk Shot’s humor, warmth, and laid-back spirit made him a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend.

On January 30, 2025, Herman McClain departed this life, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and strength.

He was preceded in death by his father, Edward McClain; his mother, Mary McClain; his brothers Herbert McClain(Tennie), Edward Jr. (Punk), John McClain, and Robert McClain; his close cousin Clifford Prime; his niece Diane McClain; and his nephew Bruce McClain.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory:

• His devoted wife, Linda McClain • His loving son, Haman McClain • His beloved grandchildren, Heaven Lee and Kai McClain • His brother, Freddie McClain • His sisters-in-law: Carolyn McClain, Gladys McClain, Chauncey • A host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

ORDER OF SERVICE

Welcome and Opening Prayer, Song by Cohane Shake

Poem Reading Fallen Limb – Eugenia McClain/Haman McClain

Song Selection by Cohane Shake

Tributes Limited to one minute

Obituary Reading by Eugenia McClain

Scriptures Reading – Rabbi Eliyahu Ben Lewi

Scripture Selection Old Testament (Psalm 11, 27, 47) Moreh Amrah

Eulogy Atarah

Prayer for the Family Rabbi Eliyahu Ben Lewi

Final Viewing

Musical Selection – Song Selection by Cohane Shake

A FALLEN LIMB [Poem/ (Back Cover)

A limb has fallen from the family tree, I keep hearing a voice that says, “Grieve not for me.” Remember the best times, the laughter, the song, The good life I lived while I was strong. Continue my heritage, I’m counting on you, Keep smiling and surely the sun will shine through. My mind is at ease, my soul is at rest, Remembering all, how I truly was blessed. Continue traditions, no matter how small, Go on with your life, don’t worry about falls. I miss you all dearly, so keep up your chin, Until the day comes when we’re together again.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The McClain Family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude for the love, support, and kindness shown during this difficult time. Your prayers, calls, and comforting words have provided strength. May God bless and keep you always.

The McClain Family

FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS ENTRUSTED TO:

Lawrence H. Woodward Funeral Home, 1 Troy Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11213

Tel: 718-493-8120 Website: lhwoodwardfh.com

 Final Viewing Service:

Date: Thursday, February 20, 2025

Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Location: Unity Funeral Home

1215 Leona St., Dothan, Alabama 36303

Graveside Service & Interment

Date: Friday, February 21, 2025

Time: 10:00 AM

Location: Unity Funeral Home

1215 Leona St., Dothan, Alabama 36303

The family will meet at Unity Funeral Home and proceed in a processional to the gravesite.

Interment will take place at:

Barfield Family Cemetery – Ashford, Alabama

TRIBUTE FROM A FRIEND (Read by Family /Friend)

“Shot and I were at Thomas Jefferson High School together. He played basketball with Jimmy McMillan, an All-American who went on to win an NBA championship with the Lakers in 1973. I played varsity football and was on the 1965 city championship team alongside John Brockington, an All-American at Ohio State and NFL Rookie of the Year with the Green Bay Packers. Shot and I used to talk about our teams all the time, even when we attended Brooklyn College. I will miss my brother. Even though I cannot attend the funeral, Maria and I will be there in spirit.”

“Linda and I grew up together in Ocean Hill Brownsville. I knew her mother, Leslie Freeman, very well, as we served together on the Ocean Hill Brownsville school board with my mother. My prayers are with Linda and the entire McClain family. Shot and Linda are dedicated warriors for our ongoing struggle.”