Earl Wilson McKinney, 94, of Taylorville, IL, passed away at Taylorville Care Center on March 12, 2026. He was born on February 13, 1932, in Palmer, IL, the son of Maurice and Florence (Wilson) McKinney. On August 31, 1957, he married Ethel Jane Lynch in Taylorville, and she survives.
Earl 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. Earl loved fishing and woodworking.
Surviving are his wife: Ethel J. McKinney of Taylorville, IL; 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, IL and Larry McKinney (Barbara) of Taylorville, IL; former daughter-in-law, Nancy McKinney of Roach, MO; and sister-in-law, Virginia McKinney Sheedy of Morrisonville.
In addition to his parents, Earl was preceded in death by his son, David McKinney; his infant daughter, Jane McKinney; grandson, Ryan McKinney; brothers, James McKinney and Nathan Edward “Butch” McKinney; sister, Marylee Howard; daughter-in-law, Mary Jo McKinney of Baxter Springs, KS.
Cremation care is being accorded, and inurnment will be in Woodside Cemetery in Irving, IL.
Memorials in his honor may be made to Woodside Cemetery, c/o Bernie Hand, 12284 East 21st Road, Filmore, Illinois, 62032.
McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.
