Louie C McClure, Jr

Louie Clifton McClure, age 80, passed away on April 30, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of memories for those who knew and loved him. Known affectionately as “Grumps,” Louie carried a spirit that blended warmth, humor, and a one-of-a-kind personality that made a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Louie was born on December 7, 1945, in Wellington, Kansas, to Cliff and Maxine McClure. He was raised on a farm outside of Mayfield, Kansas. He was the middle child between two sisters—Shirley, the eldest, and Peggy, the youngest. From an early age, Louie learned the value of hard work. Life on the farm taught him discipline, determination, and perseverance—values that stayed with him throughout his life.

A few months after graduating from high school, Louie proudly enlisted in the United States Navy and served his country with honor. During his time in the Navy, he was deployed aboard the USS Shangri-La, an experience that helped shape his dedication and strong sense of duty.

Following his military service, Louie met the love of his life, Marie. Shortly thereafter, they were married and started their family in Mayfield, welcoming a son, Brian, and a daughter, Sherra, within a few years.

In 1980, Louie started his own business in Mayfield, helping others get their start in the workforce by teaching them how to manufacture and machine aircraft parts. Later that same year, on his birthday, he was blessed with the birth of his youngest daughter, Lisa.

Louie went on to spend decades working in aerospace planning and engineering. He dedicated much of his career to his work at Boeing, Spirit, Learjet, and Lockheed Martin, where he notably contributed to the planning of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program. His work reflected both his intelligence and his deep commitment to providing a good life for his family.

Louie had a deep love for the simple joys in life. His family will always remember his poetry and his ornery pranks. He was a coach at heart, spending many years on the field with Brian. His quick wit and one-liners were the source of many smiles and much laughter. He especially enjoyed fishing and spending time with his children and grandchildren—moments that meant more to him than anything else. He never turned away a good meal or a hard piece of candy. He loved studying his old, tattered Bible, well-worn and marked up from years of teaching and digging into God’s Word. “Grumps” loved to laugh and had a special gift for making others laugh, bringing lightness and joy to those around him.

Louie is survived by his beloved wife, Helen Marie McClure; his children and their families, Brian (Ali) McClure, Sherra (Matt) Galbraith, and Lisa McClure; his sisters, Shirley Davis and Peggy (Scott) Parker; 12 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Cliff and Maxine McClure; his brother-in-law, Lonnie Davis; and his nephew, Les Davis. He leaves behind a family who will continue to honor his memory and carry his love forward.

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, May 5, at 10:30 a.m. at Cheney Baptist Church.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Louie C McClure, Jr, please visit our floral store.