Cainsville, MO: Clifford R. “Lefty” McLain was born on August 18, 1940, in Cainsville, Mo., to Robert “Copper” and Christine McLain. He passed away on October 25, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories, a family who loved him dearly, and a lasting legacy in the community he called home.
Lefty graduated from Cainsville R-I School in 1958. Shortly after graduation, he traveled to Colorado, where he worked on a ranch for a short time. He later moved to Independence, Mo., and worked at a printing shop before returning home to Cainsville.
On May 5, 1963, Lefty married Rosemary Baker, beginning a loving life together that spanned 53 years. They were blessed with two children, Rocky and Robin, who became the center of their world.
Lefty took great pride in his work as a custodian at Cainsville R-I School, where he faithfully served for 32 years before retiring. His dedication to the school and its students was an important part of his life and a testament to his strong work ethic and commitment to his community.
After retirement, Lefty and Rosemary purchased and operated The Little Store in Cainsville for 11 years. Following the store’s closing, they continued serving their community by working at the local café, where they fed many families and shared their love of bringing people together.
Lefty spent many memorable years coaching ball, umpiring games, and cheering on his son, daughter, brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, and local youth. He loved being part of the game, but his greatest joy was watching the people he loved play. Whether he was cheering from the sidelines or watching his children, grandchildren, and other family members play ball, Lefty was always one of their biggest supporters.
When he wasn’t at a ballgame or spending time with family, Lefty enjoyed fishing, playing cards, cooking, feeding everyone who came around, and making trips to the casino. He had a way of bringing people together, and his love of cooking and feeding others reflected the generous heart he shared with so many. Family, friends, food, and baseball were woven into the fabric of his life.
Lefty was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 53 years, Rosemary; his parents, Robert “Copper” and Christine McLain; brothers Randal, Bud, Jack, and Gary; sister Christie Chandler; nieces Kimberly and Gina; nephews Anthony and Brett; in-laws Kenneth and Florence Baker; sisters-in-law Dianna Seymour, Brenda Sue Baker, Joan McLain, and Bessie McLain; and brother-in-law Jerry Chandler.
He leaves behind to cherish his memory his son, Rocky (Julie) McLain; daughter, Robin (Rob) Nail; grandchildren Samantha (William) Connell, Stephanie McLain, Nathan McLain, Victoria McLain, Ashley (Quentin) McConkey, and Chase Nail; and great-grandchildren Gracie and Sage McConkey and Katherine Connell.
He is also survived by his brothers Jim (Sharon), Kenny (Barb), Richard (Connie), Tommy, Joe, Rex, Eddie (Roxanne), and Ronnie; his sister, Dixie (Mark) Waddle; sisters-in-law Deanna (Gary) Crouse, Kathy McLain and Lila McLain; brother-in-law Keith Seymour; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
Lefty’s life was defined by hard work, family, community, and a love for the simple things that brought people together. From his years at the school to his time at The Little Store and the local café, he made a difference in the lives of those around him. His love for his family, his passion for baseball, and his generous spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Though he will be deeply missed, the memories he created, the lives he touched, and the love he shared will remain forever. Lefty will always be remembered as a devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend whose legacy will live on through the generations of family and community he cherished.
Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, November 4 at the First Baptist Church, Cainsville, Mo. under the direction of Roberson Funeral Home, Bethany, Mo. Inurnment will follow in Zoar Cemetery, Cainsville, Mo.
Memorials may be made to Zoar Cemetery and/or Cainsville Ball Park in care of Roberson Funeral Home, P.O. Box 46, Bethany, Mo. 64424. Online condolences may be left at www.robersonfuneralhome.com.
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