Artis Lynn McLean

Artis Lynn McLean, 63, of Hickory passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center. Born September 21st, 1961, he was the son of the late George Harold Watson and Bertha Mae Dill.

Artis was a loving husband, devoted father, cherished grandfather, and dear friend to many. His presence filled every room with warmth, laughter, and light.

He worked as a Router Operator for four years and was respected for his dedication, strong work ethic, and pride in his craft. Known for his big smile, loud laughter, powerful demeanor, and unwavering generosity, Artis made a lasting impression on all who knew him. He approached every task with integrity and heart.

Artis was the BIGGEST wrestling fan, a true die-hard supporter of WWE and WWF. He didn’t just watch wrestling, he lived it! He proudly collected championship belts and will fittingly be wearing his prized title belt—forever a champion in the hearts of those who loved him.

In his free time, Artis loved watching kung fu movies, drawing, dancing to music, and taking great pride in washing his beloved big red truck. Most of all, he found joy in time spent with his family, treasuring the simple, meaningful moments.

Artis will be dearly missed by his beloved wife of 23 years, Debra McLean; his children, Belinda Sims, Dre'shawn McLean, Nadea McLean, Isaac McLean (Tationna Odom), Delilah Chang (Jackie Chang), Nefretiri McLean (Alexandria Partlow), Artis Lamar Ethan McLean (Sierra Boyd McLean), Karyn Latoyka McLean, and Melinda Stinka McLean; his grandchildren, Aaron, Jaxon, Amiyah, Luna, Xoey, Arionna, Safarii, Atreus, Armonee, Nehemiah, Ethan, Solstice, Yazmenda, Kingston, and Khyi.

He is also remembered with love by his extended family and friends: Della Damron, Dana Davis (JT Davis), Ricky McLean (Ilinda. McLean), John McLean (Tamika Pinkins), Ron McLean, Marcus Johnson, Miranda Haynes, Jesse Moose (his best friend), Lu'Anne Vance, Debbie Faygen, Tonia Street, and his Century Furniture family.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Arnold McLean; his grandparents, Lonzie and Carrie McLean; his aunt, Mable Cotton; and his uncle, Whitey McLean.

Artis touched countless lives with his kindness, compassion, and the presence of the Holy Spirit. Though he has left this world, his love and legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

The family will receive friends during the Celebration of Life from 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM on Thursday, June 19, 2025, at Caring Cremations Life Celebrations and Funerals, 609 Highland Ave SE, Hickory, NC, 28602.

The family thanks you for your prayers and support during this time.

Please sign the online guestbook at www.caringcremations.net. The McLean family has entrusted arrangements to Caring Cremations Life Celebrations and Funerals at 828-855-3350.