Joe D. McCain, longtime resident of Blythe, California, went peacefully to be with his Lord on October 3, 2017 in Palm Desert, California. He was 94 years old.

Joe was born on September 3, 1923 in Mathiston, Mississippi to Pascal and Cleora O'Neal McCain. He spent his entire childhood in this small, rural community. It is where he learned his strong work ethic, working beside his father in his cotton gin and lumber mill.

Joe attended the University of Mississippi, "Ole Miss," until duty called and he enlisted in the army and served in Europe during WWII.

He married Juanice Harrington in New Albany, Mississippi in 1951. Later that year the couple moved to Fresno, California where he brokered cotton. In 1952 they moved to the Palo Verde Valley where, along with his business partner, W. Y. Murphy, built his first cotton gin, Desert Ginning Company, and began farming.

Along with his love of farming, Joe was an entrepreneur. During his early career, he co-founded many successful businesses. He was especially proud when the Cibola Farmer's Bridge was completed across the Colorado River. It paved the way for direct access to the fertile, productive farm ground in Cibola, Arizona that he and his partners cleared from salt cedar scrub. In the early 60's he and his partners in Mesa Ranch, Inc. donated the property that the Blythe Golf Course was built on.

Joe's interests were primarily focused on his love of family and farming but he also enjoyed traveling. He and Juanice spent many years visiting some 77 countries. He was also proud of his 50 year affiliation with the Blythe Masonic Lodge. Joe was an artful story teller, even up to his last days. Gracious in every way, he was known for his "southern gentlemen" ways, always tipping his hat to the ladies. He loved this valley and left a legacy that continues today.

He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Juanice H. McCain. His daughters; Jamie (Bob) Mullion, Julie (Richard) Bloecker and Sally (Allen) Boden. His grandchildren Michael Mullion, Elizabeth Petersen, Emily Bloecker, Eliot Bloecker and Sarah Burr and numerous great grand-children. His sister, Hazel Poe preceded him in death earlier this year.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, November 10, 2017 at Palo Verde Cemetery.