Jackie Wayne Cline

Jackie Wayne Cline, age 66, of McCalla, Alabama, passed away peacefully on July 24, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born on March 13, 1960, in Kansas City, Kansas, and moved to Alabama with his family in 1962. It was here that he built a life and raised his family. Jackie graduated from McAdory High School before attending the University of Alabama, where he earned his degree in communications. While at Alabama, he proudly played defensive line for Coach Paul “Bear” Bryant from 1978 to 1982, becoming part of one of the most storied traditions in college football. His football career continued professionally for seven seasons. Jackie began with the Birmingham Stallions of the USFL, representing his hometown team with pride. He then went on to play four seasons in the NFL, spending the majority of his career with the Miami Dolphins under legendary head coach Don Shula, while also playing for the Pittsburgh Steelers and Detroit Lions. Although football brought him many opportunities, those who knew Jackie understood that his greatest victories were measured not by statistics or championships, but by the character he displayed every day. After retiring from professional football, Jackie returned home and became the owner of Greenpond Grocery, serving the Greenpond community for more than 30 years. His greatest joy came from spending time with his family and friends. Whether he was on the golf course, fishing, attending or watching a football game, watching NASCAR, or simply enjoying time with those he loved, Jackie lived life with enthusiasm and gratitude. Jackie was also a longtime member of Canaan Baptist Church. More than anything, Jackie will be remembered for his strength and perseverance. He believed in hard work, grit, and never giving up. Those qualities were evident throughout every chapter of his life—from the football field to the family business, and especially during his courageous fight against cancer. Even in the face of life’s greatest challenges, he demonstrated remarkable strength, dignity, and faith. His determination inspired everyone around him, leaving a legacy that extends far beyond his accomplishments. Jackie was a loving husband, father, grandfather, son, and brother, as well as a friend and teammate to many. He is survived by his devoted wife of 45 years, Vicki Cline; his mother, Ann Cline; his mother-in-law, Johnnie Fay Brown; his daughter, Jennifer Cline Baswell and her husband, Jeremy, and their children, Kendall and Jacklyn; his son, Dylan Cline and his wife, Amber Miller Cline, and their children, Collins and Jacks; and his sister, Glenda Cline Crumpton. He was preceded in death by his father, Jack Cline, in 2007 and father-in-law, Ronald “Buddy” Brown in 2016. The family will receive friends at Canaan Baptist Church in Bessemer on Thursday, July 30, from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held at Canaan Baptist Church on Friday, July 31st at 2:00 p.m., followed by a graveside service at Forest Grove Memorial Gardens in Pleasant Grove. Though Jackie will be deeply missed, his legacy of strength, perseverance, and unconditional love will live on in the family he cherished and in the countless lives he touched. His was a life well lived and a game well played. The family welcomes floral tributes. For those who wish, memorial contributions may also be made to the Canaan Baptist Church Building Fund in Jackie’s memory.

Jackie Wayne Cline

March 13, 1960 - July 24, 2026