Paul McKinney

Paul McKinney, age 84, went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, September 4, 2016 at his residence. Paul was a native of Mitchell County, born on April 25, 1932, and was the son of the late Warner and Alice McGee McKinney. He is also preceded in death by his five siblings, Elizabeth Burk, Sam McKinney, Bobby McKinney, J.D. McKinney, and his twin brother Eugene McKinney.

Known as a hard worker, Paul was an avid gardener and retired from Drexel Heritage Furniture Company following 47 years of service. He was a faithful member of the First Free Will Baptist Church of Marion where he proudly served as deacon for 61 years. Next to the Lord he loved his wife and family more than anything.

Mr. McKinney is survived by his beloved wife Pauline McKinney; two daughters, Paula McKinney Banks (John) and Lynn McKinney Smith (Kenny); two sisters, Lois Lang and Peggy Owenby.  Paul is also survived by six grandchildren, Natosha Martin (Eric), Eugene Edwards (Rebecca), Megan M. Goins (David), Paul Smith, Matthew Smith and Kayla Smith; Ten great-grandchildren, Ashleigh, Tyler, Kamie, Kirstan, Lauren, Brantley, Dillion, Hayden, David and Adrian. Two great-great grandchildren, Addison and Kaleigh.

A funeral service to honor the life of Mr. McKinney will take place on Thursday, September 8, 2016 at 2:00 p.m. at the First Free Will Baptist Church of Marion with Reverends Brian Bird and Jack Ward officiating. The family will receive friends from 12:30 p.m. until 2:00 p.m., prior to the service, at the church. Interment will follow at McDowell Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers those wishing to make a donation in memory of Mr. McKinney may consider the First Free Will Church Vision Fund, 947 Baldwin Avenue, Marion, North Carolina 28752