He loved spending time with his family, and was an avid collector of model airplanes, and trains. Growing up he was involved in the West Orange Stark High School Jazz band, and while in college at Lamar University he was a member of the marching band. He also received a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering and an Associate of Applied Science in Diesel Mechanics from Lamar University. He was also a very competitive game player. He was of the Baptist faith.
James is preceded in death by his grandparents, his father Rocellus McKinney Sr., and his brother Rocellus McKinney Jr.
He is survived by his mother, Shirley McKinney of Buna, and a nephew Rocellus McKinney III, also of Buna. He is also survived by many aunts, uncles and cousins.
A gathering of family and friends will begin on Tuesday, July 17, 2012 from 5-7 p.m. at Forest Lawn Funeral Home in Beaumont. Funeral Services will begin on Wednesday, July 18, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. also at Forest Lawn Funeral Home.
Condolences can be made at www.forestlawnmpfh.com.
