Jamie Lee McKinley

Jamie Lee McKinley, age 57, of Cottondale, AL went home to heaven on September 9, 2021. A Celebration of Life service will be Thursday, September 16, 2021 at Valley View Baptist Church. Visitation will be from 4:00 to 6:00 PM, with the service starting at 6:00 PM. The Internment will be Friday, September 17, 2021, at 10:00 AM from Tuscaloosa Memorial Park.

Jamie is the son of Leroy Paul McKinley (Bonnie) and Charlotte Jean ‘CJ’ Williams. Other survivors include: his brothers - Fred McKinley (Marsha), Tim McKinley (Sissy), Dan McKinley (Lauri), Scott Walters (Tammy), and many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, and uncles.

He was preceded in death by his stepfather, Dewey Williams, and grandparents, Elijah Paul and Isla Mae McKinley, and Leon and Francis Schofield.

Jamie was born in Tuscaloosa, AL on November 7, 1963. From early childhood he had a love for music and played violin. He attended Holt High School and then became part of the first graduating class of Hillcrest High School in 1982. He enjoyed participating in the school choir and ensembles. His musical accomplishments earned him a trip to Hawaii with his high school choir. Upon graduation, he attended Shelton State Community College where he obtained a degree in CNC Machining. He launched his carrier with Dana Corporation in Montgomery, AL and later returned home to work with Smith Machine (now ARCH Precision Components) where he advanced to Top Specialist in his field of CNC Machinist.

Jamie had a special way with animals. He loved his pets, especially his dog Lacy. He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed many activities such as snow skiing, fishing, and bow hunting. However, his passion was spending time with friends trail riding on mountain bikes and razor off-road riding. He was known for his competitive spirit when riding his mountain bike as well as being an enthusiast for high-performance cars.

Jamie had a deep love for his family and friends and made special efforts to help meet their needs. He gave his whole heart to everyone and every endeavor. He had a warm beautiful smile that always brought joy to your heart and lit up the room. He had a genuine heart’s desire for singing praises to the Lord. He was a member of the Valley View choir and drama team for many years where he shared his singing talent honoring and praising God. He also performed solos for weddings and other occasions for family and friends. He never met a stranger and loved to share God’s love with anyone who would listen. He mentored many young men and spent most summer vacations with youth at church camp.

Jamie’s life is not measured in years, but rather in the love he shared with others, the joy he brought to others, the hearts that he touched, and the lives forever changed because of his. He always tried to leave every place and situation better than he found it. He certainly left this world all the better because he was here. He ran the race God set before him, with honor and integrity, until the very end. God has welcomed him with big open arms and we are certain Jamie heard “Welcome home my good and faithful servant”. To God be the Glory!

The family wishes to recognize Bernice Hollyhand, a dear family friend and Charles Foster, a wonderful influence for Jamie. They sincerely appreciate you and the love you have for Jamie.

Pallbearers will be Hank McKinley, James Johnston, Preston Robertson, John Toxey, Jimmy Brooks, Kevin Jones, Lin Hendrix, and Michael Jones.

Honorary Pallbearers are Valley View Baptist Church Choir and ARCH fellow employees.

In lieu of flowers please make contributions to the Valley View Choir Ministry.