Perdido Key, Fla. — (GSN) — Pat McClellan, co-owner of the Flora-Bama and one of the Gulf Coast's most recognizable names, passed away peacefully in his sleep Wednesday evening. McClellan came to the Gulf Coast after a decorated career in the U.S. Navy and the hospitality industry. He is remembered not only as a businessman but also for his rare gift for making people feel at home. The Flora-Bama, perched on the Alabama-Florida state line along Perdido Key, became one of the country's most famous roadhouses under his watch.

McClellan graduated from the University of Minnesota in 1971 with a degree in Journalism and Advertising through the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps. After graduation, he spent four years aboard the USS Lexington as a Public Affairs and Special Services Officer. After leaving the Navy, he began working in the restaurant and entertainment industry in Pensacola, Florida.

From 1976 to 1984, McClellan worked his way up from bartender at Rosie O'Grady's to General Manager at Seville Quarter. While there, he launched the first Mardi Gras street party and co-chaired the inaugural Pensacola Mardi Gras committee. Those events helped shape the city's culture for decades to come.

In October 1984, Joe Gilchrist convinced McClellan to become his partner at a small Gulf-front bar, the Flora-Bama. What followed was more than 40 years of growth, laughter, and community building along one of the South's most storied stretches of coastline. McClellan helped create the now-famous Interstate Mullet Toss and the Polar Bear Dip, along with numerous other signature events.

Flora-Bama said in a statement that McClellan had a one-of-a-kind ability to connect with people. "He had a gift for turning ordinary days into stories worth telling," the statement read. "He believed the best things in life weren't polished... they were salty, sandy, a little loud, and shared with good people."

Those who knew him say McClellan was larger than life in person. He was quick with a joke, had a boisterous laugh and a commanding presence, and was never short on stories. He also had a way of reminding those around him not to take life too seriously. His signature greetings — what he called "growth hugs, maintenance hugs, and survival hugs" — made visitors feel like family the moment they walked through the door.

Flora-Bama shared what many longtime visitors and staff had always believed about the place McClellan helped build. "The truth is, Flora-Bama was never just the buildings," the statement said. "It has always been the people, the music, the memories, the laughter, the generosity, and the unmistakable spirit that Pat helped create. That spirit can't be replaced, and thanks to Pat, it can never be taken away."

In honoring McClellan, Flora-Bama offered a tribute that captured the weight of the loss for the Gulf Coast community. "Today, our hearts are heavy," the statement said. "We grieve alongside his family, his countless friends, our employees, musicians, and the millions of guests who became part of this incredible family over the years."

Flora-Bama closed its tribute with a message that reflected what McClellan stood for throughout his life. "Thank you, Pat, for proving that the best places in the world aren't found on a map," the statement read. "They're built by people who love others well."

Details on a celebration of life for Pat McClellan are expected to be announced at a later date.