Velma Aline McClain, lovingly known as Aline, passed away peacefully on July 19, 2026 in St. Charles, Missouri at the age of 90.
Aline was born on October 14, 1935, in Chaffee, Missouri, to Jesse and Clarissa Mae Carnell. In December 1951 she married the love of her life, Wilbur Austin McClain, “Austin”. Together they shared many happy years until Austin’s passing in August 1994.
Aline was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, whose greatest joy was her family. She is survived by her son, Michael McClain (Diane) of St. Peters, Missouri; her daughter, Ginger Schnepel, (Michael) of Red Bud, Illinois; her granddaughters, Sarah Landeck (JR) and Rachel Stellhorn (Trevor); Sean Douglas (Rachel) and her great-grandchildren, Madeline and Lily Luther, Austin and Sadie Stellhorn Rozalyn, Camden, Gwendellyn and Rubylyn Douglas.
During the 1960s, Aline proudly owned Hazel’s Beauty Shop in Granite City, Illinois, where she built lasting friendships while serving her community. She later enjoyed a long career in retail, where her warm smile and friendly nature touched the lives of many.
Aline found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. She was a talented seamstress and enjoyed sewing and crocheting beautiful creations for those she loved. She was also an exceptional cook who delighted in preparing delicious meals and bringing family together around the table. Nothing made her happier than sharing good food, laughter, and time with the people she loved most.
Aline’s gentle spirit, unwavering love for her family, and generous heart will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
In accordance with her wishes, Aline was cremated and will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband, Austin. A graveside service will be held at a later date, where family and friends will gather to celebrate her life and honor her memory.
My deepest condolences to you, and your family Ginger!
There are no words that can truly ease the pain of losing your mother, but I want you to know how deeply sorry I am. Aline was a special woman who raised two amazing people,and her love and legacy will live on through you both. May you find strength in the days ahead and comfort in the many wonderful memories you shared. I’m holding you close in my thoughts and prayers.
Ms. Fix It will surly miss seeing her face everyday. Glad I had the opportunity to know her.
Please accept my deepest sympathies. I am part of the St. Vincent DePaul Society from St. Elizabeth Ann Seton parish. We would visit Velma on Wednesday’s. She never told us to call her Aline! She was a very special person who we all looked forward to seeing. She will be deeply missed by all of us. We feel very Blessed to have spent so much time with her. Prayers for all of you.
It was my great blessing to know and bring Holy Communion to Velma these past few years. She was always sweet and kind and had a smile on her face.
I too am from St. Elizabeth Ann Seton. She was such a special lady. She was so positive in her outlook and cared about others. Velma was one of the bright spots on our visits. She had a smile for everyone. I will miss her. She was a gift.