Meldra Jean McClimans

Meldra Jean McClimans

June 9, 1930 – September 4, 2026

Meldra Jean McClimans, age 96, of Arlington, Texas, passed away on September 4, 2026. She will be laid to rest on Friday, November 6, at noon at Forest Oaks Memorial Park in Austin, between her husband, Frank, and her youngest son, Randy.

Affectionately known as Mamaw to her family, Meldra was vibrant, strong, stubborn, and a wonderful storyteller. She danced, she traveled the world, and no one could keep her spirit down, even through the very end of her life.

Meldra was born June 9, 1930, in Big Spring, Texas, the cherished daughter of Lester F. Caughey and Mildred Lawrence Caughey. She married Frank Walter McClimans, and together they raised two sons, Jerry Michael "Mike" and Randall Eugene "Randy".

She loved horses and the jockeys who rode them. One of those jockeys asked her to marry him, she said yes, and together they started a business, G and J Horse Racing. She drove an extended-cab black dually pickup with an eight-ball shifter and a ladder to climb up into it. Her taste in clothes was impeccable, and she was always dressed to the nines, even after thirteen hours on a plane to Sydney, when she skipped the nap and went out on the town instead. She could steal a room and the hearts of everyone in it, and she danced with everyone at her grandson's wedding. She had a laugh her great-grandson Benjamin carries today.

Her family will remember her for so many things, but especially for her bright, beautiful Christmases and her wanderlust and love for exciting destinations both near and far. She filled her life with experiences, laughter, and a sense of adventure that became part of the memories she leaves behind.

Her great-granddaughter Kayla remembers Mamaw as the fashion icon she was. From her nails to her hair to her clothes, she was always fabulous. Violet remembers her warm smile and laugh, how proud Mamaw was of her beautiful flower garden, and the way she showed that you can remain strong and capable no matter your age. Mabel loved spending hours with her in that garden, picking and trading flowers, while Hayden will always remember Mamaw's big hugs. Benjamin liked her humor and generosity, while Asher liked her style. Shalom loved her spunk and positive attitude.

She is lovingly remembered by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren: grandson Chris McClimans, his wife Shalom McClimans, and their children, Asher and Benjamin; and granddaughter Heather May, her husband Justin May, and their children, Violet, Kayla, Hayden, and Mabel Iva May.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Frank (1979); her son Randy (1972); and her son Mike (2022).

Meldra lived a long life with a spirit that was distinctly her own: strong-willed, adventurous, colorful, and full of life. Those who loved her will carry their memories of her, and her unmistakable spirit, forward.

Asked whether there are animals in heaven, her grandson answered: if God comes riding in on a white horse, Mamaw will be right there by His side, leading the charge.

Friends who would like to share a memory of Mamaw are welcome at mamaw.mcclimans.net.

Graveside service

Friday, November 6, 2026, at 12:00 noon, Forest Oaks Memorial Park, Garden of Meditation, 6300 W William Cannon Dr, Austin, TX 78745.

Shiva

The family will be sitting Shiva next week at home in Boulder. To visit in person or join us on Zoom, email us at mamaw@mcclimans.net, or subscribe below and we'll send you the details.