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On Monday, November 11, 2024, our beloved husband and father, Walter Milton McKinney, left this walk of life behind at 81 years of age. After a long, hard and well fought battle with cancer and other illnesses, he traded this old world and body to be with his Lord and Savior whom he loved and followed with his whole heart.

He was the son of the late Charles Howard McKinney and Delestine Winters McKinney. He was also preceded in death by a son, Kevin Walter McKinney, and a sister, EvaNell Perry.

Walter enjoyed talking, mowing, joking, NASCAR, especially Dale Earnhardt, working on small engines, Atlanta Braves baseball, playing Canasta, picking on his sister-in-law, Pam (Mike) Hughes, but most of all he loved his family and church family. Walter was a member of Morgan Branch Free Will Baptist Church in Roan Mountain.

He leaves behind his loving wife of 60 years, Carolyn Laws McKinney; his children, Chris (Darla) McKinney, Tammie (Phil) Jones, Amanda (Drew) Strickland and Cody McKinney; a daughter-in-law, Sheila McKinney; a brother, Jeff McKinney; a sister, Ruth Brown; seven grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

As per his wishes, a visitation will be held at Morgan Branch Church in Roan Mountain, Tenn., from noon until 1 p.m. Thursday, November 14, with a service to follow at 1 p.m. with Rev. Justin Hodges and Rev. Bob Campbell officiating. Music will be under the direction of Chris McKinney and Darla McKinney. The family will also receive friends at the residence at any time.

The graveside service will follow in the Richardson Cemetery, Roan Mountain. All his family and friends are welcome to join this celebration of life and remembrance of Walter. Pallbearers will be chosen from family and friends.

A special thank you to Dr. Wesley Hanson, Roan Mountain Pharmacy, Hillview Home Health Care and Gentiva Hospice group for going above and beyond with their care and kindness. Words of sympathy may be shared with the family by visiting our website at www.tetrickfuneralhome.com.

Tetrick Funeral Home is honored to serve the McKinney family. Office Phone: (423) 542-2232.