Earl Wilson McKinney, 94, of Taylorville, died at Taylorville Care Center on March 12, 2026.
Cremation care is being accorded and inurment will be in Woodside Cemetery in Irving. McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.
Mr. McKinney was born on Feb. 13, 1932, in Palmer, the son of Maurice and Florence (Wilson) McKinney. On Aug. 31, 1957, he married Ethel Jane Lynch in Taylorville, and she survives.
He proudly and selflessly served in the U.S. Army from 1952-1954 after he graduated high school. Following his service, he worked for Caterpillar for over 30 years. He loved fishing and woodworking.
Mr. McKinney is survived is by his wife, Ethel J. McKinney of Taylorville; grandchildren, Nathan McKinney of Camdenton, MO, and Sam (wife, Kaylee) McKinney of Colorado Springs, CO; great-grandson, Graham McKinney of Colorado Springs, CO; siblings, Charles D. (wife, Lavonna) McKinney of Argenta and Larry (Barbara) McKinney of Taylorville; former daughter-in-law, Nancy McKinney of Roach, MO; and sister-in-law, Virgina McKinney Sheedy of Morrsionville.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, David McKinney; infant daughter, Jane McKinney; grandson, Ryan McKinney; brothers, James McKinney and Nathan Edward “Butch” McKinney; sister, Marylee Howard; and daughter-in-law, Mary Jo McKinney.
Memorials in his honor may be made to Woodside Cemetery, c/o Bernie Hand, 12284 East 21st Road, Fillmore, Illinois, 62032.
