James Riley "Jim" McKinney

James Riley “Jim” McKinney, 75, Kokomo, passed away Monday, January 19, 2026, at his home surrounded by loved ones.  He was born June 25, 1950, in Des Moines, Iowa, the son of the late Ernest McKinney & Margaret (Shepherd) Hatter.  On August 12, 1989, in Kokomo, he married Donna Hoover, and she survives. 

A proud veteran, devoted family man, and lifelong car enthusiast, Jim lived a life marked by service, dedication, and a deep appreciation for the things he loved.

Jim was a graduate of Southeast Polk High School. He later pursued his passion for mechanics by earning an associate degree from Ivy Tech Community College. His mechanical aptitude and strong work ethic led him to a long and successful career with General Motors, where he worked for 30 years before retiring. During his time there, he was an active member of UAW Local #292.

Jim served his country honorably in the United States Marine Corps from 1968 to 1972. He completed a tour in Vietnam and rose to the rank of Sergeant. His military service was recognized with numerous commendations including the Combat Action Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Commendation, and the Navy Achievement Medal. He remained deeply connected to his fellow veterans as a lifetime member of the Howard County Vietnam Veterans Organization (HCVVO).

A man of faith, Jim was a member of Abundant Life Church in Kokomo. His spiritual life provided him with strength and community throughout the years.

Jim had a lifelong love for cars—especially those with dual exhaust—and proudly owned several classic vehicles including a 1950 Chevy, a 1970 Flatbed truck, and a 1967 Chevy Impala. He was also an avid NASCAR fan who especially admired Dale Earnhardt Jr., finding joy in the roar of engines and the thrill of the race.

Along with his loving wife Donna, Jim is also survived by his children, Angela (Tim) McQuinn and Donavon McKinney; stepchildren, Stacey White and Jamie White (fiancé, Hope Lowe); grandchildren, Brandon (Angelica) Dillon, Darren Dillon (fiancé, Sidney Fisher), Kai McKinney and Kayley McKinney; step-grandchildren, Bailey (Trent) Brown, Madisyn White and Malorey White; great-grandchildren, Jevontae, JaKai, Trent Jr., Brinley and baby Dillon due in June; sister-in-law, Lillian Merideth; brother-in-law, Don Current; several nieces and nephews; and his beloved labradoodle Zoey.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Joseph Merideth and Nancy Myers; his goldendoodle, Maggie; and his Manx cat, Simon.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 pm Friday, January 23, 2026, at Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory, 1315 W. Lincoln Road, Kokomo, with Pastor Toph Elkins officiating.  Burial will follow in Sunset Memory Garden Cemetery with military honors provided by the United States Marine Corp and the Kokomo VFW Military Rites Team.  Friends are invited to visit with the family from 11:00 am until time of service Friday at the funeral home.  Memorial contributions may be made in Jim’s memory to Wounded Warrior Project, woundedwarriorproject.org. 

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