Robert L. McKinney, affectionately known as “Pa”, age 81, born in Sylacauga, Alabama, was called home June 20, 2021. Robert was a devoted Christian, Husband, Father and Grandfather.
Robert accepted our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ at an early age and was an active and faithful member of St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church until his illness. Bob once served on the Deacon Board, the Visual Art Ministry, and a very instrumental member of the St. Luke Male Chorus and Choir.
He graduated from Roosevelt High School and attended Miami University for two years.
Robert served 6 years in the United States Army and was awarded the Bronze Medal of Service. He was also a member of the Masonic Temple. Robert had a strange love affair with Cadillacs, there probably was not a color he did not have. His passion was singing in church, going fishing, watching western and scary movies, enjoying his family and most of all, watching his grandson slam dunk at the basketball games. Bob started his managerial work career at NCR then transferred to General Motors/Delco and then Dayton Phoenix Group where he retired after 45 years of service. The “Gentle Giant” always greeted you with that warm smile, a bear hug or that handshake that will literally bring you down to your knees …gently.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, John and Annie Dell McKinney; brothers, Tommy Lee, John Lewis, Rome, Lonzo, Isaiah, Howard, Jimmie Neal, William Jake and Virgil; sisters, Mary Hale, Willie Pearl Thomas and Ollie Sue Brunson.
Robert leaves his loving and devoted wife of 57 years, Jessie Sallye Kate McKinney; daughter, Valerie (Sean) Kaye McKinney-Walker; grandson, Vinson (Jaylin) Robert Sean Walker; brother, Donald McKinney and numerous, countless of special nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Robert, Bob, Pa… The Gentle Giant will be deeply missed and live forever in our hearts!
Funeral service will be held 11 am Friday, July 2, at St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church, 2262 N. Gettysburg Ave. Visitation 10 am until time of service. Interment Dayton National Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to House of Wheat Funeral Home, Inc.
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