Barbara Retta McClain

Barbara Retta McClain, lovingly known as “Barb” or “Barbie” to her family and friends, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of October 8, 2026, at the age of 88, at her home in West Liberty, Ohio.

Barbara was born on March 16, 1938, to the late Paul J. Sprague and Jane R. (Licklider) Sprague. She was the fourth of five daughters, growing up alongside her sisters Jean, Paula Ann, Jane and Charlotte. Barbara and her sisters were raised on their family's farm along State Route 29. Affectionately called “Barbie” by her father, the nickname remained a cherished part of her identity throughout her life.

Barbara attended Harrison-Adams High School in Rosewood, Ohio, where she was Homecoming Queen. She graduated in May 1956 and soon afterward married Richard Earl McClain, on July 8, 1956. Together, they shared 67 loving years of marriage before Richard's passing in December 2023.

Barbara and Richard made their home on the McClain family farm in West Liberty, Ohio, where they built a life together, raised their four children, and created countless memories. Throughout her life, Barbara embraced her many roles as a daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. As a hardworking farmer's wife, she dedicated much of her life to their home and the farm. In addition to her life on the farm, Barbara worked as a manager at McDonald's for 11 years. She was also the proud owner of a country store located on the McClain farm. Naturally artistic and creative, Barbara had a wonderful talent for making beautiful things with her own hands. She especially enjoyed handmaking and sewing items for her shop.

Barbara found joy in life's simple pleasures. She loved reading, sewing, gardening, and baking. In later years, she enjoyed watching her beloved Matt Dillon on Gunsmoke. Her artistic spirit and creativity were reflected in the many things she made. Whether tending to her garden, creating something special with her own hands, or enjoying a favorite television show, Barbara appreciated the familiar comforts of home.

Known for her strong will and determination, Barbara was a woman who knew her own mind and wasn't afraid to speak it. She approached life with creativity and a spirit that was uniquely her own.

Barbara’s devotion to Jesus Christ was the foundation of her life, grounding her in love and guiding the way she served and cared for those around her. She remained a devoted member of the United Church of God throughout her life.

Barbara was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 67 years, Richard Earl McClain; her parents, Paul and Jane Sprague; her four sisters, Jean Walborn Gantz, Paula Ann Pullins, Jane Ford and Charlotte Williamson and many extended family members and dear friends.

Barbara is survived by her four children: Christopher Earl McClain, Theodore Linn McClain (Stephanie), Susan Beth Sloan, and Penelope Jill Woodrum (Wayne). She is also survived by her nine grandchildren: Kelsey Brown (daughter of Christopher); Theodore Richard McClain and Bo Garrett McClain (sons of Theodore); Brittney Jill Fehring (Andrew), Rebecca Elizabeth Ruber (Adam), Amanda Jane Caitlin Sloan, and Adam Richard Sloan (children of Susan); and Samuel Logan Pike and Casey McClain Pike (sons of Penelope).

Barbara also leaves behind ten great-grandchildren, along with many extended family members including her beloved nephews and nieces, friends, and loved ones.

Though she will be deeply missed, Barbara's memory will live on through the family she raised, the memories she created, and the countless lives she touched throughout her 88 years.

There will be a funeral service on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Eichholtz & Daring Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 101 Zanesfield Rd, West Liberty. Visitation will be one hour prior from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow the service at Fairview Cemetery in West Liberty.

Memorial contributions may be made in Barbara’s memory to the Macochee Joint Ambulance District, 113 E. Newell Street, West Liberty, Ohio 43357.

EICHHOLTZ & DARING FUNERAL HOME, & CREMATION CENTER, WEST LIBERTY is honored to serve the McClain family and encourages anyone to share a fond memory or message of condolence at www.eichholtzdaring.com.

Family authored obituary (HJR)