Pat McClellan, Flora-Bama Owner Who Built Gulf Coast Icon, Dies At 77

PERDIDO KEY, FL. (THECOUNT) — Pat McClellan, the longtime owner of the iconic Flora-Bama entertainment venue on the Florida-Alabama state line, has died after building a legendary Gulf Coast destination known for live music, signature events, and generations of visitors. Flora-Bama announced McClellan passed away peacefully in his sleep Wednesday evening.

Perdido Key is a coastal community located in Escambia County, Florida, near the Alabama border and the Gulf Coast cities of Pensacola, Florida, and Orange Beach, Alabama. Flora-Bama, which sits along the state line, has become one of the region’s most recognizable beach landmarks.

Flora-Bama announced McClellan’s death in a statement celebrating his decades of work transforming a small beachfront bar into a nationally recognized gathering place. The business said McClellan created an atmosphere built around music, friendship, community, and memorable experiences.

“Some people own a business. Pat McClellan built a legend,” Flora-Bama said. The venue credited him with helping create traditions including the annual Polar Bear Dip and Interstate Mullet Toss, along with numerous other events that brought visitors from across the country to the Gulf Coast.

McClellan’s path to Flora-Bama began after a military and hospitality career. According to the venue, he graduated from the University of Minnesota through the Navy ROTC program in 1971 with a degree in journalism and advertising. He later served four years aboard the USS Lexington as a public affairs and special services officer.

After leaving the Navy, McClellan worked in the hospitality industry from 1976 to 1984, beginning as a bartender at Rosie O’Grady’s before eventually becoming general manager at Seville Quarter in Pensacola. During that time, Flora-Bama said he helped launch the first Mardi Gras street party and co-chaired the first Pensacola Mardi Gras committee.

In October 1984, McClellan partnered with Joe Gilchrist at Flora-Bama, which was then a much smaller Gulf Coast establishment. Over the following decades, McClellan helped grow the venue into a destination known for beach culture, live performances, and community events.

Flora-Bama said McClellan’s influence extended beyond the physical property, describing his legacy as the relationships built between employees, musicians, guests, and members of the Gulf Coast community.

“The truth is, Flora-Bama was never just the buildings,” the venue said. “It has always been the people, the music, the memories, the laughter, the generosity, and the unmistakable spirit that Pat helped create.”

Escambia County District 1 Commissioner Steve Stroberger also paid tribute to McClellan during a county commission meeting, describing him as one of the leaders responsible for making Flora-Bama an iconic Gulf Coast destination.

Stroberger said McClellan and his partners transformed a small beach bar into a place that connected generations through music, fellowship, and community traditions. He specifically highlighted the Interstate Mullet Toss and McClellan’s support of local charities and Gulf Coast causes.

“His impact reached far beyond the state line,” Stroberger said. “Pat’s commitment to our community and local charities and his Gulf Coast way of life leaves a legacy that will endure for years to come.”

Flora-Bama said details regarding a celebration of life for McClellan will be announced at a later date.

CLICK HERE FOR THE GOOGLE MAP

DEVELOPING::