Delmer "Gene" Eugene McKinney

Delmer "Gene" Eugene McKinney, born on May 10, 1936, in Adair, Oklahoma, passed away on Thursday, January 16, 2025, in Claremore, Oklahoma. Gene lived a life marked by dedication, service, and the love of family.

He proudly served in the United States Army, where he built an admirable career, ultimately retiring as a staff sergeant after twenty years of committed service. Gene's dedication to his country was a defining aspect of his character. He was the President of the former Pryor Elks Lodge and the Bedouin Temple in Muskogee, OK. He also dedicated many years to being the Kountry Kuz Shriner Clown. 

Gene married Barbara Ivey Brown on July 17, 1955, and together they shared many wonderful years until her passing in 2017. Gene found fulfillment in various pursuits; he enjoyed woodworking, fishing, reading books, and traveling, all of which reflected his appreciation for both creativity and nature.

Gene is survived by his children, Dale Brown, of Olympia, WA, Dean McKinney and wife Kathy of Montello, WI, and Tanya Beaven and husband Brian of Verdigris, OK. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Russell McKinney, Travis Beaven, and Monica Judy, and great-grandchildren, Raelyn Judy, Bokerah Beaven, and Kelli Judy, who cherished his presence in their lives.

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara McKinney; son, Kelly McKinney; parents, George and Ruby McKinney; and siblings, Jack McKinney, JT McKinney, Rosalie Carter, and Barbara Linn.

A memorial service for Gene will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, January 21, 2025, in the Shipman's Funeral Home Chapel with Brother DJ Castoe officiating. To leave a message, please visit his guestbook at www.shipmansfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Shipman's Funeral & Cremation Service of Pryor.