The trumpets sounded and the angels rejoiced when Sharon Kay (Drewel) McKinney passed away at her home on May 24, 2019 and took the hand of her Lord and Savior. She will be remembered for many things, including her devotion to God, commitment to family, affection for the critters, loyalty to her friends, and a loving heart and hug for all who would take it.
Sharon was born October 15, 1946 to Delmar “Dink” and Bernice Drewel. She was a curly haired cotton top blue-eyed baby girl and she was the apple of her mom and daddy’s eye. She was a lifelong resident of Bland, Mo.
Sharon worked at DEB Shoe Factory right after high school. Soon after she met the love of her life James “Porky” McKinney and joined him in Holy matrimony on June 3, 1966 at Zion UCC in Bland Missouri. This love affair has been celebrated each day for almost 53 years. Even after he retired, when Porky would leave to go to the restaurant, then running around all day going to yard sales, not knowing when he would finally return home, their love for one another never failed. Their two biggest blessings were their son Donnie and daughter Danielle. While she worked briefly at Leland’s grocery it became extremely evident that her calling was to stay home with her children.
Sharon was a lifelong active member of Zion E-Free Church of Bland and currently attended Leduc Little Country Church, also of Bland . She served on numerous committees and sang in the choir. Here she was able to showcase her God-given talent, singing with the voice of an angel and whistling like a songbird. She helped many years as an election official for Gasconade County. Almost 3 years ago she went back into the workforce as a Guest Happiness Team Leader at Simply Beautiful Salon and Spa LLC in Jefferson City, Missouri. She was so loved by all the guests of the salon and she loved them as well.
She served as president of Old Bland Cemetery, was an active member of the Bland Fire Auxiliary and the Bland Booster Club. Most importantly she served as a member of the Bland School Board during some very trying times. She fought valiantly to preserve the identity and individuality of Bland High School. Sharon graduated from Bland High School in 1964 with 18 other classmates, 14 of which attended all 12 years together.
One of her greatest affections was for all of God’s critters. Whether they barked, meowed, hissed or mooed she would take in any stray and give it a home. She could nurse them back to health with such ease and grace. Being the loving mamma that she was, she would watch proudly when they were ready to “fly the coop.” This knack was utilized completely during her volunteer time at Protect Every Pet Clinic in Bland.
She also enjoyed cooking, canning and gardening. But never forget her greatest enjoyment came from spending time with her family and critters.
Each day Sharon put everyone else first. She not only saw the best in everyone but knew how to bring out the best in everyone. Her loving spirit and giving nature we’re unparalleled. Her spoken words could ease a troubled soul and her talent as a wordsmith could touch a heart and move mountains. She had an uncanny way of saying just the right thing at just the right time. Sharon could encourage others, help those in need, counsel in any situation, and love unconditionally. Her love for family and friends was boundless and her generosity to them endless. Sharon was a true lady and faced life with the grace of the Proverbial woman.
Sharon loved to laugh even through tears. She loved life even in sorrow. Her last 20 years she suffered yet fought through numerous major medical battles. She never complained and always complied, “that it was in God’s hands.” Her loving and bright presence will never be matched and will be sadly missed. Heaven now shines brighter than ever with her grace.
Sharon is survived by her husband of almost 53 years, James Edward (Porky) McKinney. Son, Donnie McKinney and wife Elizabeth of Bowling Green, Missouri. Daughter, Danielle Withouse and husband John of Bland, Missouri. Her beloved grandson, Tony Withouse of St. Louis, and Honorary granddaughter and grandson, Seth & Liv Klein of Owensville, Missouri, along with Honorary great-grandson Emmett and numerous grand-critters. She is also survived by countless cousins and friends.
For all who knew and loved her…….
When you find yourself in awe of a beautiful sunrise or a serene sunset, remember God is the greatest artist, and her last words to you would be –
“I love you more than you will ever know.”
Funeral and celebration of her life will be Wednesday, May 29th at 11:00 am. with Pastor David Knudsen officiating. Visitation and Funeral will be held at Zion E Free Church, 400 N. Sycamore Street, Bland, MO.
Burial immediately following at Old Bland Cemetery.
Family and friends are invited for a fellowship lunch after the interment at Zion E Free Church.
Memorials in Sharon’s honor are asked to be given to Old Bland Cemetery or Non-Kill Animal Shelters throughout Central Missouri.
Arrangements by Gottenstroeter Funeral Home of Owensville.
