Debra Hanson McClain

Debra Hanson McClain, of Opelika, passed away peacefully, Saturday, September 14, 2024 at home with her husband and daughter at her side. She was born February 18th, 1955 in Opelika, AL. She was the daughter of the late Luther G. Hanson and Bernice Hanson of Opelika, AL.

She is survived by her husband of 50 years, James G. McClain. Jr (Jim) , a daughter, Karen M. Bambas (Forrest Bambas), a grandson, Ian Bambas, and a brother, Luther Steven “Steve” Hanson.

Debra grew up in Opelika and graduated Opelika High School in 1973. She and Jim married June 8, 1974. She graduated Auburn University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Piano Pedagogy and began a career as a piano teacher in the local area. She touched many lives through teaching her love of music. She eventually opened her music shop and tirelessly helped many students with their band supplies. Debra was always wanting to help others in any way she could. She was one of a kind and will be dearly missed.

The family will have visitation on Friday, September 20th at 10:00 am followed by her funeral service at 11:00 am at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home and then laid to rest at Garden Hills Cemetery.

The family respectfully declines gifts of flowers. In lieu of flowers gifts may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital (www.stjude.org) or to the Women’s Hope Clinic (www.womenshope.org)