Curtis Robert McClees :: Russell Haven of Rest

Curtis Robert McClees, 66

Curtis Robert McClees was born on July 24, 1959 in Washington D.C. and passed away on January 14, 2026 in Orange Park, FL. He was raised just outside of D.C. in Oxon Hill, Maryland. He was the eldest son of Robert and Ada McClees. In his youth, he was very active in scouting, wrestling, and JROTC. In 1974, he was the Maryland State Champion in wrestling for his weight class. He became an eagle scout at the age of 14. Scouting was instrumental in his success as a young adult. It taught him to be self-reliant and forge ahead in his business endeavors and adult scouting roles.

After attending the University of Maryland, he began his career as a general contractor. For 20 years, he held licenses in Maryland, New Jersey, and Florida. Curtis spent many years on the road managing and building various commercial projects. In 1999, Curtis left the construction field to begin a company named Winning Concepts. He was the owner of a marketing and advertising firm which specialized in political campaign management. Each campaign cycle brought him great success.

Curtis has been married to his life’s partner, Liz, for 44 years. They have 3 children, Daniel (Tiffany), Matthew, and Kristyn. They have 3 beautiful grandchildren, Elijah Lehecka, Kayla McClees, and Brooklyn McClees. He also had 3 brothers, David McClees, Scott McClees and Mark McClees.

Over the years, Curtis has filled his time with his service to others. They include but not limited to having served as the Chairman of the Republican Party of Clay County (2018 – 2023) was a volunteer and past board member for 7 years of Clay County Habitat for Humanity as well as past board member of the Dye-Clay YMCA.

Curtis was a 25 year member of the Rotary Club of Orange Park. Twice he was past president from 2010 to 2011 and 2021 to 2022. While a Rotarian, he was a multiple Paul Harris Fellow and a member of Paul Harris Society.

Curtis was awarded the NOESA (National outstanding eagle scout award) and was a Life member of NESA. He served and was a past board member for 6 years of Clay County Police Athletic League. For 20 plus years, Curtis was as member of Clay County Chamber of Commerce, board member, and was also awarded the Business Person of the Year in 2003.

Curtis was a member and former chairman of Trustees at Calvary United Methodist Church for many years, was an adult leader with Troop 418, assistant scoutmaster and committee member. He served as Cubmaster Pack 418 assistant Webelos leader, District Training Chairman, District Commissioner, and 1997 contingent leader to the National Jamboree.

Curtis was awarded the Silver Beaver in 2005 for his distinguished service to youth and recipient of the 2012 Black Creek District 12 Point Award. He was awarded the Best Embroidery shop in Clay County for the past 6 years.

A Celebration of Life will be held 11:00 AM Tuesday, January 27, 2026 in the First Baptist Church of Orange Park, 1140 Kingsley Avenue, Orange Park, FL 32073

In lieu of flowers, the family ask that memorials be made to either: Orange Park Rotary, https://www.orangeparkrotary.com/ or Boy Scouts of America North Florida Council Donate

Arrangements are under the care of Russell Haven of Rest Cemetery, Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 2335 Sandridge Road, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043. Family and friends may share their condolences at: www.RHRFH.com 904-284-7720

Brandon Kikta

I have known Curtis since I was a youngster. I met him through my friendship with his son, Daniel, when we all lived in the Indian Springs neighborhood off Moody Avenue. Those were formative years, and Curtis was a constant presence—hardworking, driven, and always moving from one project to the next. At the time, Curtis owned a construction business and was incredibly dedicated to his work. Eventually, the family moved to Orange Park Country Club, where Curtis built a beautiful home that truly reflected his craftsmanship, vision, and pride in what he did.

Curtis was always a member of, or involved in, many different organizations, and he never seemed to slow down. He had a natural ability to lead and a genuine desire to help others, whether through his professional work, community involvement, or personal relationships. That commitment to service and leadership is clearly reflected in the many accomplishments he achieved throughout his life.

On a personal level, Curtis was someone you could always call. He would take the time to listen, offer thoughtful advice, and share his perspective, no matter how busy he was. I will always remember the times he would call me for help setting up whatever new technology he had purchased for the business. Those moments spoke to his curiosity, willingness to learn, and trust in others.

Curtis made a lasting impression on everyone who knew him, including me, and I feel grateful to have had him as part of my life for so many years. I could go on, but I’ll stop here. Curtis, you will be truly missed.