James Polk McLain (September 27, 1923-November 2, 2008) lived 85 full years as a husband, father, grandfather, friend, and trusted counselor. Like many young men his age, he served his country in the Pacific theatre during World War II attaining the rank of Lieutenant.

Upon returning from the war, he enrolled in the University of Georgia and graduated in 1947 with a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology and was honored by being inducted in the Psi Chi honor society. Following graduation, he enrolled in the University of Georgia School of Law. He graduated with a J.D. degree and passed the Bar in 1950. He began working for C&S Bank after graduation before organizing the firm now known as McLain & Merritt with Marvin H. Shoob in 1957.

Jim McLain was very active in the Atlanta community and beyond. He served on the Boards of Trustees of Oglethorpe University, Columbia Theological Seminary, Queens College, Presbyterian College, the Atlanta Humane Society, and the Scottish Rite Children’s Medical Center. And he was a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland and a Master Falconer. Mr. McLain was also active in professional activities and served as President of the Atlanta Lawyers Club; President of the Atlanta Estate Planning Council, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Atlanta Lawyer Foundation; as Fellow of the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel, and was a law instructor at Georgia State University.

Mr. McLain was a member of Peachtree Presbyterian Church for over 50 years and served as a Deacon and an Elder; served as the Chairman of the Board of Deacons; and was on the Board of Trustees of the Peachtree Presbyterian Trust Fund.