John A. McKee, 95, of Elizabethton, Tenn., passed away at his home on Saturday, December 2, 2017. John was born on November 14, 1922 in Troy, N.Y., to the late Edward R. and Elizabeth B. McKee. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one sister, Elizabeth R. “Betty” McKee, and a son-in-law, Scott Elias.
John graduated from Duncan College Preparatory School of Nashville, Tenn., and attended Yale University, Class of 1944. He interrupted his education to join the United States Merchant Marines during World War II, achieving rank of Licensed Third Assistant Engineer. After returning to Yale and graduating with a B.S. Degree in Chemistry, John worked as a Process Development Chemist in several synthetic fiber manufacturing businesses such as, DuPont, North American Rayon of Elizabethton, American Cyanamid, and Great Lakes Research. He retired from Great Lakes in 1984, after 12 years of service, having participated in the development of two carbon/graphite fibers.
John had several hobbies, primarily fishing, mostly fly fishing and fly tying both in fresh water and salt water. He also wood-carved, mostly duck decoys as decorative items. Though his piano career faded in later life, John always enjoyed listening to classical music, with an extensive collection of LPs and tapes.
John is survived by his loving companion of 34 years, Marjorie S. Stratton; a sister, Kathrine McKee, of Nashville, Tenn.; two daughters, Edith E. McKee, of Elizabethton, and Rebecca Elias, of Richmond, Va.; one grandson, Johnathan P. Elias. Also surviving are five step-grandchildren, Sam, Helen, Scotty, Joanie and Jessie; also, Marjorie’s children, James, Richard, Sheila, Jay and wife Renata, Matt, Jenny, and Stanley and wife Marcella; many other grandchildren and great-grandchildren also survive as well as his estranged wife, Priscilla B. McKee, of Pensacola, Fla.
John has requested that no memorial services be held. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Trout Unlimited Fishing Club Overmountain Chapter #492, P.O. Box 7400, Woolly Bugger, WV 25438. Online condolences may be shared with the family on our website, www.tetrickfuneralhome.com.
Mr. McKee and his family are in the care of Tetrick Funeral Home, Elizabethton. Office: (423) 542-2232. Service Information: (423) 543-4917.