William Wayne McKinney

William “Wayne” McKinney, 92, of Canyon, entered the gates of Heaven on June 7, 2024.

A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held on Monday, June 10, 2024, at 10:00 AM at Schooler Funeral Home, Brentwood Chapel, 4100 South Georgia. Volleys for Veterans will render military honors.

Wayne, born in House, New Mexico, to his parents, William Guy and Annis Wayne Bouse McKinney, on May 29, 1932, was a man of service.  He graduated from High School in Arkansas and immediately enlisted in the US Navy, proudly serving his country from 1951 through 1955 during the Korean War. His dedication and bravery during this time were a testament to his character and values.

Wayne was a hard worker throughout his life.  It took him five years to get on with SPS, but when he finally did, he spent the next forty-four years working for them, retiring from Xcel.  He was a straightforward man who loved providing for his family and those close friends he considered family. He manicured beautiful yards and gardens and constructed eight houses throughout his life for his family.  As a father, he was loving and supportive.  He cherished time with his family and took great pride in the homes he built for them.  

He worked tirelessly and believed in the golden rule, “Treat others like you want to be treated.”  Wayne was generous and helpful, and helping others brought him great joy. He loved classic country artists and horses, especially any shiny buckskin.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his siblings, the mother of his children, Bronitta "Carol" Cole McKinney, and two grandsons, Taylor Brown and William Taylor.

Wayne is survived by his three daughters, Deborah Langwell and her husband Randy of Canyon, Donna Salicco and Diane Shepherd both of Amarillo; his two sons, Douglas and David McKinney both of Amarillo; eleven grandchildren, Danica, Derek, Shanntell, Shonda, Jenny, Josh, Jim, Jess, Holley, Emily and Michael; eighteen great-grandchildren; and many great-great-grandchildren.