Justin McClain

Justin Andrew McClain, a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away on May 26, 2024, in Anoka, Minnesota, at the young age of 23. Born on May 12, 2001, in Poughkeepsie, NY, he was the cherished son of Megan Ann Gomes and Allan “AJ” McClain Jr., and a loving brother to Nina (Kyle) Scott-Poellnitz, Jaelyn McClain, and Jacob McClain.

Justin was a proud graduate of Poughkeepsie High School, Class of 2019. A passionate basketball enthusiast, he was a student-athlete in the Student Athlete Basketball Program (SABP) at Clinton Elementary School in Poughkeepsie. He played on various team leagues throughout his school years and had the opportunity to attend basketball camps where he met Carmelo Anthony and Iman Shumpert.

From a young age, Justin demonstrated a flair for creativity, cutting and styling his clothes to reflect his unique fashion sense. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he began making masks for his mother, who works in healthcare, and extended his efforts to provide masks for her coworkers and others in the community.

Justin was known for his kind heart and infectious smile, leaving a lasting impact on everyone he met. His talents in fashion and music allowed him to capture the world’s beauty through his unique lens, creating cherished memories for his family and friends.

Aspiring to become a Community Outreach Worker, Justin’s vision will be honored through the creation of an organization dedicated to perpetuating his legacy. Justin is survived and deeply missed by his parents, his siblings, his nephew Kaleb Poellnitz, and a close-knit extended family including aunts, uncles, cousins, the many people who have loved him along the way, friends who considered him a brother and his siblings in love, Ascel, EJ, Elise, and Breanna, will also miss him dearly.

Justin’s legacy of kindness, laughter, and love will continue to inspire all who knew him. As we bid farewell to this remarkable young man, let us carry forward the light he brought into our lives.