James McKinney

1965 ~ 2023

Date of Death: February 27, 2023

In profound sadness, the staff of Veasley Funeral Home & Cremations, Inc. want to express our sincere condolences to the McKinney family. James’ earthly temple is now resting in the care of Rowell-Parish Mortuary. Revelations 21:4 says, "And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death; nor sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain, for the former things are passed away." Be assured that in the days ahead you will surely gain strength from the memories of Mr. James Phillip McKinney.

Sincerely,

Derrick Veasley ~ Director

Henry Veasley ~ Director

Pastor E.C. Maltbia ~ Chaplain

James Phillip McKinney was a gift into the world from God on Saturday, January 2, 1965 to Enoyce Hawkins McKinney Jackson and Hertis McKinney, Sr. in Fort Smith, Arkansas. He was likewise called by God to take his eternal rest on Monday, February 27, 2023 in Fort Smith.

Before he could take a single step, he was already bound and determined to be a rare and unique human being. Just as the nickname, he would gain the moment he started eating baby food - "Piggy". His mother used two spoons in quick rotation to help speed up the process (this would keep him from crying during his feedings).

James grew up in Fort Smith, Arkansas where he attended the Fort Smith Public School System. In 2002, he was born again into the family of the Church of Christ, and he became a faithful member of Ninth Street Church of Christ. He was also known for being family man (whom he truly loved).

James worked at Trane until they closed their doors, at which time he began to pursue his Associates of Science in Information Technology from Arkansas Technical College in Ozark, AR. After having achieved his degree, he worked for AT&T as a Premises Technician from which he retired. He was vastly known for his mild-mannered temperament, having a vast number of talents and skills and his willingness and readiness to use his talents and skills to help others. He will be greatly missed by all who knew, adored and appreciated him throughout his lifespan.

James be forever cherished by his son: Jessiah McKinney of Fort Smith, AR, three daughters: Corene (Tyler) Clark and Ashely McKinney both of Fort Smith, AR and Brianna (David) McKinney Johnson of Broken Arrow, OK; 6 grandchildren; mother: Enoyce Jackson of Fort Smith, AR; father: Hertis McKinney, Sr. of Fort Smith, AR; seven brothers: Ralph (Dawn) Hawkins of Pocola, OK, Hertis McKinney, Jr. of Alma, AR, Malvin Fields and Marcus Fields both of Fort Smith, AR, Johnny (Gwen) Jackson of Lake Charles, LA, Ike Jackson, Jr. and Deyon (Treopia) Jordan both of Van Buren, AR; seven sisters: Karen West, Jacqueline (James) Lloyd and Sarah (Jerome) Jones all three of Fort Smith, AR, Vivian Cole of North Carolina, Carolyn (Byron) Johnson of Fayetteville, AR, Mary Robinson of Florida, and Debra Jackson of Fort Smith, AR and host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, other family members and many friends.

Walk-through visitation will be Monday, March 6, 2023 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. with family greeting friends from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Rowell-Parish Mortuary 611 North 9th Street Fort Smith, Arkansas 72901.

Celebration of life service will be held Tuesday, March 7, 2023 at 10 a.m. at Ninth Street Church of Christ 1930 North 9th Street Fort Smith, Arkansas 72904.