Hilma R McClain

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Hilma Romaine McClain, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, who departed this life peacefully on September 27, 2025, at the age of 92. Born on November 29, 1932, in Cook County, Illinois, Hilma’s journey through life was one of unwavering love, devotion, and service to her family and community.

Hilma’s love story began with her husband, James W. McClain, whom she met while working at the Willard Hotel in Washington, D.C. They were united in marriage on December 6, 1952, and built a beautiful life together in Washington, D.C. until 1963, when they moved to Lanham, Maryland. After the passing of James in 1983, Hilma continued to spread her warmth and kindness, moving to Owings, Maryland, in 1992.

A devoted mother, Hilma raised six children: Karen Vendemia (Mike), Debbie Adams (the late Bob), Mark, Michelle Rice, Paul (Patti), and Cathy Radford (Robert Earl). Her legacy lives on through her twelve grandchildren—Stacy, Robert, Heather, Jason, Candice, Teresa, Jamie, Davy, Joey, Amanda, Caitlin, and Ethan—and her twenty-four great-grandchildren, along with one great-great-grandchild. Hilma is also survived by her cherished siblings, Geri and Henry. She was preceded in death by her parents Bror Kallio and Stella Grzanek Aho, siblings Romaine, Audrey, Sylvia, and Mike. 

Hilma was a devout Catholic, deeply involved in her faith and community. She devoted her time and effort to Queen of Peace Church and School, where she ran the hospitality committee and volunteered at local schools. Her professional journey included working for Sarah Coventry Jewelry, and later, she co-owned and operated several Pizza Oven restaurants with her husband. In the later years of her life, Hilma joyfully worked alongside her daughter at Prince Frederick Pizza Oven, delivering meals well into her 70s, embodying an indomitable spirit and love for her family. 

A woman of many talents, Hilma found joy in crafts, music, dancing, and especially crochet. Her hands lovingly created blankets for family and friends, bringing warmth and comfort to those she loved. She treasured family gatherings, often sitting on her porch with a glass of wine, joyfully watching her children and grandchildren swim and play. Always ready to lend a helping hand, Hilma welcomed those in need into her home, exemplifying generosity and compassion. 

In honoring the life and memory of Hilma Romaine McClain, we invite friends and family to join in celebrating her remarkable journey. A public viewing will be held at Lee Funeral Home Calvert, P.A., 8200 Jennifer Lane, Owings, MD 20736 on October 9, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in her memory at St. John Vianney Catholic Church, 105 Vianney Lane, Prince Frederick, MD 20678 on October 10, 2025, at 12:00 PM, preceded by another public viewing from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Hilma will be laid to rest at Resurrection Cemetery, 8000 Woodyard Road, Clinton, MD 20735 surrounded by the love she so freely gave. 

As we remember Hilma, let us celebrate a life well-lived, a heart full of love, and a legacy of kindness that will resonate for generations to come. She will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege to know her.