06/12/2026
Donald Robert McKinney
Somerset, Kentucky
September 18, 1941 - June 10, 2026
The Reverend Donald Robert McKinney, 84, of Somerset, Kentucky, was called to his eternal home on June 10, 2026. A devoted servant of Christ and a retired United Methodist minister, he leaves behind a beautiful legacy of faith, compassion, and unwavering love for his family and community.
Born on September 18, 1941, in Shopville, Kentucky, he was the son of the late Robert (Bob) McKinney and Irene (Randall) McKinney. Answering the call to ministry early in life at the age of 19, he dedicated his heart and intellect to the teachings of Jesus Christ and the Wesleyan tradition. After graduating from Lexington Theological Seminary with a Master of Divinity degree, he was ordained an Elder in Full Connection within the Kentucky Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church. He spent 44 years serving various churches and as a District Superintendent. After retiring, he spent 9 years pastoring a small church in Pulaski County part-time. He touched countless lives through his sermons, counsel, and ministry of presence. His pastoral heart, wise counsel, and quiet sense of humor brought comfort and joy to all who knew him.
Beyond the pulpit, Don was a devoted family man. He married the love of his life, Verna (Poynter) McKinney, on January 14, 1960. Together, they shared 66 years of marriage, building a home rooted in grace, hospitality, and love. He was a constant source of encouragement and a proud father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who cherished every moment spent with his family.
He will be deeply missed and is survived by his beloved wife, Verna; his children, Sherry McKinney-Shelton (Gary) and Ed McKinney (Deb); his cherished grandchildren, Andrew McKinney (Kaylee), Spencer McKinney (Raegan), and Ella McKinney; his step-grandchildren, Winston Shelton (Randa) and Jacob Shelton (Scarlet); and his great-grandchildren, Shepherd McKinney, Margot McKinney, and Adilynn Shelton. He is also survived by many extended family members, friends, and former parishioners. He was preceded in death by his father, mother, and infant brother, Timothy.
A celebration of his life and faith will be held at 2:00 p.m. on June 17, 2026, at First Methodist Church in Somerset, Kentucky. Friends will be received prior to the service from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the church. Following the service, he will be laid to rest at Randall-Herrin Cemetery in Shopville, Kentucky.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial donations be made to Hospice of Lake Cumberland, 100 Parkway Drive, Somerset, Kentucky, 42501, in honor of Don's lifelong commitment to serving others.
