Myra Ann McLain

Despite challenging life-long heart issues, Myra, born December 1st, 1932, lived a full and enriching life. She spread a welcoming smile and infectious sense of humor to everyone she met. She was born into a family of educators. “Daddy”, Arthur August Graber, school principal, and “Mother”, Alma Blanche Hall, teacher.

Myra and her two sisters Pat and Kay grew up in a United Methodist family. Myra told stories of living in a Methodist Church parsonage. Her and her sisters would spy on the church youth group from their bedroom window. In the 7th grade living in Alaska, Myra endured Rheumatic fever and convalesced in their apartment on the top floor of the school building. She spent her time reading books and developing a heightened interest in literature.

After High school, Myra attended Oklahoma A&M State University, where she met and asked her future husband James Edward McLain of Shidler, Oklahoma out for a date. The couple were active in a college United Methodist Fellowship group. Myra earned her teaching degree.

After college Myra and James wed and moved to Fort Morgan, Colorado and started their family. They welcomed their first child, Mark, followed by Dana, lagging behind, Jo Ellen completed the family.

In 1964, the family moved to Yakima where Jim taught school. Myra was a family domestic engineer. Myra was a part of the League of Women Voters, volunteered at Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital, enjoyed time with Association of University Women’s book club, and was involved in church. She worked part-time at Grants Newberry Department store. When the youngest was in 6th grade, she had an in-home daycare center. She eventually went on to work as a teacher’s aide at Yakima Valley School.

After her husband retired from teaching, the couple moved to Selah, Washington. There, they enjoyed a leisurely country life. In 1990, Myra was granted a granddaughter, Ruby McLain. Myra enjoyed teaching her to bake and instilled a life-long joy of reading.

In 2015, Jim battled cancer, and the couple moved back to Yakima. At this time, their daughter, Dana McLain had already passed away due to M.S. James McLain Passed away in 2016. Myra remained active with her church, Wesley United Methodist. In 2023, the family experienced the loss of the oldest child, Mark. The youngest, Jo, remained and aided with Myra’s daily needs. Until the day of death, Myra was a prayer warrior.

Myra is survived by Daughter, Jo Ellen McLain of Yakima Washington. Patricia Mcculloch, and Nephew Ross Mcculloch of Fredonia Arizona. Margaret Kay Graber of Lincoln, Nebraska. Sister-in-law Pauline Hodges of Mustang, Oklahoma. Granddaughter Ruby Nauck (Kyle Nauck, spouse) and Great Granddaughter, Kaira Nauck of Olympia, Washington.

“Earth has lost a saint; heaven has gained an angel.”

In lieu of flowers please make donations to Yakima based charities such as WUM Free Little Pantry, Habitat for Humanity, or the Discover shop.

Funeral services to take place at Wesley United Methodist church on Friday, April 18th at 10:00 AM. Located at 14 N. 48th Avenue Yakima, Washington. 98908