Death Benefit #360 – Gary McKinley

Gary R. McKinley, age 70, passed away on February 9, 2023, at 4:03 pm, at his residence surrounded by his family. Gary was born May 24, 1952, in Macon, GA, to Harold “Jim” J. and Susan (Lee) McKinley who preceded him in death.

Gary is survived by his fiance, Melissa A. Selby of Lima, OH, sons: Jaret (Brenda) McKinley of Delphos, OH and Jake (Lydia) McKinley of Lima, OH, 3 grandchildren: Corbin, Adelyn and Morgan, 2 brothers: Dewey (Kathy) McKinley and Greg (Darcey) McKinley and his fur baby, “Piper Sue”. He was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Paige, a brother, Jim McKinley and his previous wife, June V. (Kill) McKinley.

Gary was a 1970 graduate of Spencerville High School. He had also attended Texas A & M University and the United Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters Instructor Training. Gary had worked with Plumbers and Pipefitters Local # 776 from 1977 until he retired in 2013. He was a member of the American Legion, VFW and the Eagles. Gary also belonged to ABATE. He loved riding Harley Davidson motorcycles, golfing, “Tuesday Nights” with his golfing buddies at Fat Jacks, spending time at the Waiting Room, poker runs and grilling. When he was younger he had coached little league baseball for his sons and his bother Greg. He loved The Ohio State Buckeyes, Cleveland Browns and was a lifetime fan of the music of John Prine. He will be remembered as being a dedicated father and grandfather and was a very generous person that would help people out in a way that wouldn’t bring attention to himself.

There will be a Celebration of Life Motorcycle procession starting at 12 noon on April 15, 2023 leaving the Eagles in Delphos traveling to his final resting place in the Spencerville Cemetery for burial of cremated remains and military honors that will be performed by the VFW and the U.S. Army at 1:00 pm. Following the cemetery services there will be a time of gathering and meal back at the Eagles in Delphos. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Benevolence Fund of the Local #776 @ 1300 Bowman Rd., Lima, OH 45804, c/o Gary McKinley. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.chiles-lamanfh.com.