The Lord rejoiced and welcomed his faithful servant, James Edward “Porky” McKinney into his loving arms Tuesday morning, July 18, 2023.
He was born April 17, 1944, at home near Peavine as a 4 lb preemie to Clarence and Anna (Stratman) McKinney. He was the center of their whole world from day one. They later moved to a farm in Paydown, when Porky was 4 years old. He grew up on the family farm raising all sorts of livestock, row crops, and the like.
He attended the one room schoolhouse at Paydown through 8th grade. This is where the nickname “Porky” was born. Many are curious as to why. Growing up, he was a little chunkier, and along with other livestock, he raised and showed prized Chester White hogs… so the name began, and stuck for a lifetime. Depending on his location, he would go by Ed, Jim, or Porky. But if in trouble with Sharon, it was always James Edward. He attended high school in Belle, and graduated in 1962. He went on to attend Linn Technical College (now Linn State), graduating with a degree in Auto Mechanics.
Porky then met the love of his life, Sharon Kay Drewel. She was the only girl he ever brought home to meet his parents. They were married June 3, 1966, at Zion UCC in Bland. They were together just shy of 54 years from the time their love story began. From this beautiful union came Porky’s pride and joys, Donald Edward and Danielle Erin. He was a devoted family man that treasured every moment. No matter how tired he was from working away or at the farm, he always made quality time to love on his “youngins.” He never parted without saying “Love you youngin!”
In 1966, he was drafted into the Army and spent ten years in the Army Reserves. He attained the rank of Sergeant First Class before leaving the Reserves in 1976.
During those years, along with working on the farm, he was employed at Bull Moose Tube Company in Gerald, starting in 1965. He retired from Bull Moose in 2011, after over 46 years service. He was their “go-to” maintenance man, and a source of entertainment for all.
Over the years, Porky was a man of many talents, and wore several different hats. He served as Bland Municipal Court Judge, and was a long time member of the Bland Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department and the Bland Booster Club. Porky and son Don built the footbridge at the Bland City Park for the local Girl Scout troop. He also helped start the Bland Shooting Range and organized several black powder matches held there. He was a proud 50+ year member of the Owensville gun club.
Porky was also a Master Mason, and a proud member of Belle Lodge #373, taking his brotherhood very seriously. He also served on the Old Bland Cemetery Committee. He was a long time member of the Zion Evangelical Church, serving in many capacities. For the last five years, he was a loyal member of the Leduc Little Country Church. He loved his church family, and was proud to call it home. Yet, he always said he was closest to his Lord outside in the woods, surrounded by God’s creation.
As most know, Porky was an avid gun lover, gunsmith, hunter, and outdoorsman. His knowledge and passion for all things gun-related was unrivaled. He also had a great love of all critters, especially cats. He and Sharon would take in or help any stray critter at their home or the farm.
He loved children of all ages, and they loved him in return. Most of all, he had an unwavering love for his family. He sacrificed so much for them, never complaining. He had the brightest blue eyes and always a beautiful smile. Always quick with a story to tell, and never met a stranger. He loved spending time at the local restaurants, always at the “liar’s table”, hanging out with dear friends. He would help anyone in need, great or small. He instilled these values in his children and peers. When Porky loved, he loved deeply and unconditionally.
Porky is survived by son, Don McKinney and wife Liz of Bowling Green; daughter, “Baby Girl” Danielle Withouse and husband John of Bland; grandson, Tony Withouse of St. Louis; and many cousins, countless friends, and many “grand-critters.”
Remember his smile, laughter, stories, values, and love for his Lord and family. Carry those on in your lives and future generations to make him proud.
Visitation for Porky was Friday, July 21, from 5–8 p.m., at Sassmann’s Chapel in Bland.
A Masonic service was held at 10 a.m. with funeral services following Saturday, July 22, at the Leduc Little Country Church. Interment followed in the Old Bland Cemetery with full military honors. Following the military honors, an honorary gun salute was held by his friends and family. Anyone wishing to participate was welcome to bring their empty 12 gauge to join in the honors. Confetti loaded ammunition was provided by the family.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are suggested to the Old Bland Cemetery or to the Belle Masonic Lodge #373.
