News Summary
Chattanooga mourns the loss of Hugh O. Maclellan Jr., a significant figure in the city’s growth and civic engagement. At 88, he leaves a legacy of leadership through his work with Unum and the Maclellan Foundation, influencing both local and global communities. His dedication to service, Christian faith, and contributions to education and philanthropy have profoundly impacted Chattanooga.
Chattanooga Mourns the Loss of Beloved Civic Leader Hugh O. Maclellan Jr.
Chattanooga, a city known for its rich history and community spirit, is in mourning after the passing of a beloved local figure, Hugh O. Maclellan Jr.. He left this world on Friday morning at the age of 88, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that spans business, civic engagement, and Christian leadership.
A Legacy of Leadership
Hugh O. Maclellan Jr. was not just a name; he was a cornerstone of Chattanooga’s growth and thriving spirit. His family’s roots in the region date back to the founding of the Provident Insurance Company, now known as Unum, which has long been a key player in the city’s economy. Until 1970, no one outside the Maclellan family held the title of president at Provident, underscoring the family’s deep ties to the organization. Hugh joined the company in 1963 after earning degrees from Vanderbilt University and the Wharton School of Finance.
For nearly 32 years, Hugh served diligently on the board of directors for Unum and its predecessor companies, making thoughtful contributions that solidified Unum’s position as an industry leader. Upon his retirement in 2007, he took pride in stepping away from a company that has been part of his family history since its inception in 1887, feeling the pull to spend more quality time with family and to focus on the mission of the Maclellan Foundation.
A Heart for Service
Beyond his impressive business acumen, Hugh was passionate about his Christian faith and its role in the community. After retiring, he significantly ramped up his involvement with the Maclellan Foundation, which was founded to promote Christian ministries and philanthropic initiatives, especially aimed at advancing the teachings of Christianity. Hugh held a particular passion for evangelism, constantly encouraging others to give generously and invest in Kingdom efforts.
The influence of the Maclellan family extends deep into Chattanooga’s educational landscape. Hugh was a dedicated leader at the Chattanooga Christian School, shaping the lives of countless students through his guidance and support. His commitment to the community was bolstered by his connections with renowned figures in Christian ministry, including the late Billy Graham. Through financial support and participation, Hugh helped lay foundations for many impactful Christian initiatives.
Global Impact and Local Outreach
Among his numerous accomplishments, Hugh played a key role in pioneering innovative strategies for global evangelism. One notable project was supporting “The Jesus Film,” a tool used to spread the Christian message worldwide. In the 1990s, he initiated World Strategy Conferences aimed at inspiring other Christians to invest strategically in advancing the Kingdom.
Hugh’s vision extended to local organizations, contributing significantly in the establishment of initiatives like First Things First, the Chattanooga Resource Foundation, the Maclellan Shelter for Families, and the Chattanooga House of Prayer. His emphasis on community and faith earned him a reputation as a “good and faithful servant,” one whose efforts shaped the spiritual and civic landscape of Chattanooga.
A Loving Family
Hugh leaves behind a loving family, including his wife, Nancy Browne, their four children, and an impressive lineage of 22 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. In this time of loss, the Maclellan family is committed to carrying forward Hugh’s legacy of service and faith. The family invites the community to join them for a visitation on Saturday, April 26, at 10:30 a.m. at the Lookout Mountain Presbyterian Church, followed by a memorial service held at 12:00 p.m. in the church sanctuary.
The void left by Hugh O. Maclellan Jr. is certainly felt across Chattanooga, but his incredible spirit, dedication to community service, and unwavering faith will undoubtedly live on through his family and the many initiatives he championed throughout his life.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Chattanoogan: Hugh O. Maclellan Jr. Longtime Civic Leader Passes Away
- Times Free Press: Hamilton Flourishing
- Chattanoogan: Hugh Huffaker Jr. Prominent Civic And Business Leader
- Wikipedia: Hugh O. Maclellan Jr.
- Times Free Press: Conservative Think Tank Hamilton Flourishing
