Willodean McCain was born on January 28, 1928, in Cullman County, Alabama. She passed away on February 27, 2026, at the age of 98, at Buck Creek Nursing Home in Alabaster, Alabama.

Willodean earned her Master's Degree at the University of Alabama. She was a teacher at Jacksonville State University. She married John Collins who also taught at Jacksonville State University. After John's death, Willodean married Ruel C. McCain. They enjoyed life and traveled some until Ruel McCain passed away on September 30, 2006.

Willodean was preceded in death by her father and mother, James and Dottie Stephenson; her husbands, John Collins and Ruel C. McCain; her sisters, Eulene and Murene. She is survived by her nephew Steve Howse; step-son Robert McCain; his sons Ken McCain, Lance McCain (Brittany McCain), daughter Allison McCain Thornton (Jess Thornton); and their children, Claire McCain, Jack McCain, Grady Thornton, Gracyn Thornton, Lucy Thornton.

Willodean was a very talented lady with strong faith. She enjoyed painting and had many beautiful pictures. She attended Jacksonville Methodist Church, and Pleasant Grove First Baptist Church. She loved and was loved, and will be missed.