Roger Dee McKinney (60) of Iola

Roger Dee McKinney, age 60, of Iola, Illinois, passed away at 7:58 pm, Saturday, March 22, 2025, at the HSHS St. Anthony's Memorial Hospital in Effingham, Illinois.

Born on June 10, 1964 in Salem, Illinois the son of Delbert Dean and Betty (Bishop) McKinney. Roger was united in marriage to Melanie Ingram on October 13, 1981, in Salem, Illinois and they shared 43 years of marriage. Roger's life was a testament to his love of the simple things. His career spanned decades, beginning in the oil fields, a job he found fulfilling, and culminating in 30 years of dedicated service as a truck driver for ANCO Steel in Louisville. Roger was a member of Harter Township Fishing Club at Trago Lake, reflecting his love of the outdoors. Roger was a joyful, warm and compassionate man. He shared a spirit of adventure with his wife, Melanie, embarking on spontaneous road trips, embracing the journey and the unexpected discoveries along the way. His family was the center of Roger's world and his love for them was unconditional. He cherished his time with his children and grandchildren, creating lasting memories and sharing his passions with them. He was a devoted family man, deeply loved and profoundly missed.

Roger is survived by his wife: Melanie McKinney of Iola; children: Crystal (Jeremy) Byers of Iola, Dean (Regina) McKinney of Iola, Ashley Hunt of Iola; grandchildren: Austin, Tyler, Madison, Kyle, Courtney, Jacob, Aaron, Hannah, Jaxson, Danae, Ezzy, Aubree, Aleah, Eli; great-grandchildren: Leeahnah, Lila, Kash, Iris; siblings: Janet Rich of Watson, Junior McKinney of Champaign, Dixie Lopez of Wisconsin, and Sandra. He is also survived by many nieces, and nephews.

Roger was preceded in death by his parents, and a brother: Dale McKinney.

Funeral services to celebrate Roger's life will be held at 1:00 pm, Saturday, March 29, 2025, at the McGriff Funeral Home in Louisville with Pastor Mike Durre officiating. Burial will follow at the Iola Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Saturday at the funeral home from 11:00 am until 1:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Roger's memory to his favorite charity that he and Melanie had supported for many years, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. The McGriff Funeral Home in Louisville is honored to be entrusted with the family's care and arrangements. To sign the guestbook online or share a memory or story of Roger, please visit by clicking here.