Gary W. McKinney, 79 of East Peoria, IL died at 4:40 pm Sunday, August 6, 2023 at Carle Unity Point Methodist Hospital in Peoria, IL.

Born on February 29, 1944 in Mt. Vernon, IL, to George W. and Retha Clara Chambliss McKinney, he married Linda Sue Bean on May 23, 1965 in Mt. Vernon, IL.  She survives.

Also surviving are 1 daughter, Melissa Camaione of Mt. Vernon, IL, 1 son, Christopher (Jennifer) McKinney of Faith, NC, 6 grandchildren, Andrew (Xiaoxi Huang) Camaione of Chicago, IL, Peter Camaione of Mt. Vernon, IL, Katharine Camaione of Charleston, IL, Paul Camaione of Mt. Vernon, IL, Keaira McKinney and Anglas McKinney, both of Phoenix, AZ, 3 step-grandchildren, Isaac Jeans, Sunshine Jeans, and Joshua Jeans, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and his brother Randall.

Gary worked at Caterpillar Tractor Co. as an Accountant, retiring in 2012 after 35 years of service.  He was an active member of Highview Christian Church in Washington where he served as Treasurer for many years and served as an Elder for several decades.

He was a Hospice Volunteer at Carle Unity Point Methodist for many years, including their Kourage Kids Grief Camp.  He was an avid gardener, loved to explore nature, and was known for his frequent walks with Indigo, his Great Dane, and Icee, the cat.

A memorial service will be held at 3 pm Saturday, August 19, 2023 at Highview Christian Church in Washington.  Pastor Chris Wright will officiate.  Visitation will be 1 hour prior to the service, 2-3 pm Saturday, at the church.  Burial of remains will be at Mt. Vernon Memorial Gardens, Jefferson County, IL, on a later date. Deiters Funeral Home and Crematory in Washington is assisting the family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Highview Christian Church (General Missions Fund), and if desired, a specific designation may be made to Pioneer Bible Translators, Papua New Guinea/Spence Family.