John Wright McKinney

June 10, 1935 - December 9, 2014
John Wright McKinney


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John Wright McKinney, age 79 of Wilmington passed away Tuesday, December 9, 2014.

He was born in Wilmington, NC on June 10, 1935 to Joseph Edward McKinney and Retha Edwards McKinney.

John was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He owned and operated McKinney Appliance Sales and Repair and after his retirement from his company he worked for the AD-Pak news in Wilmington as Circulation Manager.

Survivors include his wife, Shirley Farrow McKinney; children, Debbie Fry (Douglas) and Robin Northam (Gary); 6 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren. Remembered is his grand-daughter, Shannon Fry who passed away April 24, 2014.

Services will be at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 514 S. College Road, 11 am Friday, December 12, 2014. Visitation and viewing will be an hour prior to the service. Burial will be at the Nelson Family Cemetery Leland.

Please share memories and condolences with the family by clicking on the “Sign Guest Book” tab above.

Wilmington Funeral & Cremation, 1535 S. 41st Street, Wilmington, NC 28403 910.791.9099


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  • December 10, 2014
    Theltn & Kathy Skipper says:
    Dear Shirey nd Famiy, I send our love and prayers to your wonderful Familly. AS you all kow John Wright was my personal dear friend for so many years. My mom and Dad will be pleased with this event to be able to see someone they truly loved also.May the Lord Bless you n your time of sorrow and lift you upon your knowledge of "Families are Forever". May His blessings take some of the sting out of a brief separation. I understand he did proudly his last performance in "Hay tack Jamboree", with our love to each of you.Thelton & Kathy

  • December 12, 2014
    Kathy and Kevin Hughes says:
    I am so sorry to lose Johnny. He was such a sterling example to us all!!! Johnny I love you so much!!! xo

  • December 12, 2014
    Sonya Holden Paxton says:
    Shirley, Debbie and Robin, I am so sorry to hear of Johnny's passing. I have many fond memories of him and of your family and wish you all the comfort of a loving Father in Heaven and the support and love of family and friends. God bless you all and your families.

  • December 12, 2014
    Susan Gardner says:
    Not having Johnny here physically is going to be tough for a very long time. I'll miss him. A wonderful, kind hearted and genuine friend indeed. A man of much wisdom. I am thankful for the fond memories, I will always cherish and keep deep within my heart. He was always there for me no matter when. I'm thankful for all the blessings he gave me to get me through. To all Johnny's family you have my deep heart felt condolences. Prayers are with you all. I am so grateful I got to talk to him a couple weeks ago before he left us. Love Susan ♥

  • December 12, 2014
    Linda Burrell says:
    Robin and Gary and family, You are certainly in my thoughts and prayers. I did not know your Dad was sick. Please give Shirley my love. Love all of you. Aunt Linda