Gerald Thomas McKinney

Gerald (known by all his friends and family as Jerry) was born in St Joseph in August of 1935 to parents Floyd and Della McKinney. Jerry was the oldest of 6 siblings-leading 3 sisters; Nancy, Alice, and Patty, and 2 brothers; Johnny and Donald. Jerry often reminisced fondly about his childhood in St Joe. Even though the family struggled financially, growing up fishing, playing ball, and swimming in the Missouri River left him with wonderful memories. Jerry joined the Navy at the end of the Korean Conflict. As a Seaman on the USS Enterprise, he crossed the equator as well as sailed around the world. While in the Navy Jerry met a WAVE, Virginia Strickland, and fell in love. The two were married in 1956 and started their own family, eventually numbering 5 children 2 boys; Richard David and Michael Douglas, and 3 girls; Teresa Diane, Arletta DeLinda, and Elizabeth DeAnne. At that time Jerry discharged from the Navy and enlisted in the Air Force. He was a top flight mechanic responsible for fighter jets including the F15. While in the Air Force, Jerry served two tours of duty in Vietnam. During his deployment he survived his base being attacked and overrun during the Tet Offensive. Jerry retired from the Air Force in Las Vegas after 20 years of military service. In his civilian career he was the Purchasing Director for the Westward Ho Hotel and Casino. During this time Jerry married Rosa. Their marriage lasted 45 years ending with Rosa's death on July 26 2019.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, his ex-wife Virginia, his youngest daughter DeAnne, his sisters Nancy and Patty and his brothers Johnny and Donald, his beloved cat Stormy, and his wife Rosa. He is survived by his sons; Richard and Michael, his daughters Diane and DeLinda, his grandchildren Miles and Ash, and his sister Alice.

The loss of your father

No matter how old you are

Changes your life

Forever

You never really get over the loss

You just learn to live with it

And he is never far from your thoughts