CJ McLin

The Legendary C. J. McLin, Jr. – C. J. McLin, Jr. was one of Ohio’s most influential politicians. He was born in East St. Louis, Illinois on May 31, 1921, as Clarence J. McLin, Jr. Known as “C.J.,” he moved to Dayton, Ohio with his family at age 10. By age 13 he was working in his father’s funeral home, where he later became president. McLin graduated in 1940 from Dunbar High School and attended Virginia Union University before serving in the U.S. Army.
McLin became a strong community leader in the years that followed. His philosophy was rooted in a sincere belief in the importance of community involvement. He is credited with helping to advance countless individuals in local and statewide civic roles. His 1966 election as State Representative was the commencement of a 22-year reign as Dayton’s chief intermediary with state government. Although McLin’s influence and power extended well beyond the Dayton area, today’s local community benefits from his efforts in many ways. He fought for the establishment of a medical school and other facilities at Wright State University, strongly supported the advancement of Central State University, and pushed the expansion of U.S. 35 West through Dayton.
McLin died at age 67 after a three-year battle with cancer. Before his death on December 27, 1988, he requested that his daughter, Rhine McLin, be appointed to the Ohio House seat that he held. Ms. McLin was appointed to that seat in January 1989 and elected to two additional terms. In 1994, she was elected to the Ohio Senate, and in 2000, she was elected mayor of the city of Dayton.