Individual Details

Death

James E. McKay, Jr., 81 of Locust Bayou, AR passed away Thursday, February 19, 2015. He was born November 04, 1933 to James E., Sr. and Alta Furr McKay. He was a forester for International Paper Company for 34 years. He was a beloved member of the Locust Bayou Church of Christ. Jim was one of those rare people who was universally liked. He always had a smile on his face and was an encouragement to everyone. Kind-hearted, hospitable, and generous, Jim’s door was always open to anyone, and he was ever ready to help people however he could. He deeply loved his family and found great pleasure in spending time with them—whether it was on family vacations, at the deer camp, or relaxing on the front porch. In the lives his loved ones, “Papa” was a steady, positive presence. A devoted member of the Church of Christ, Jim was the primary song leader for many years. As such, he left a lasting impression on those whom he led in worship. Doubtless many of his Christian family members will always remember the sound of his voice when they hear certain hymns. When he was able, Jim always had a vegetable garden. He would sow seed and reap a bountiful harvest that he shared with those around him. Likewise, Jim sowed seeds in his life of generosity, hard work, and godliness. He reaped in life the admiration and love of his family and friends, who can now be confident that he continues to reap abundantly in his eternal home. An adored brother, father, grandfather, and friend, Jim’s wisdom, kindness, gentleness, and commitment to his Creator leave a lasting legacy and a wealth of good memories. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Eleanor Jackson McKay; and sister, Reba McKay Hendon. He is survived by his daughters, Lori Bussell and husband, Eric, Melissa Beaver and husband, Steve and Julie Cole and husband, Donny; brother, Clark McKay; sisters, Janice Lum and Judith Miller; grandsons, Tyler Bussell, Hayden Bussell, Evan Beaver and Jackson Cole; two granddaughters, Hanna Cole and Claire Beaver; brother-in-law, Len Miller; sister-in-law, Janie McKay; nieces, Jill Gatling, Suzanne Lum, Lisa Ramierz, Sheila Harris, Vicki McKay, Mary Beth Crawford, Elizabeth Strickland, Sarah Bounds and Anita Rowe; nephews, Buddy McKay and Jason Hendon; several great nieces, great nephews, cousins; and a host of close friends. Funeral services for Mr. McKay will be 2:00 PM Sunday, February 22, 2015 at Locust Bayou Church of Christ with burial in Lakeside Cemetery. Visitation will be 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM Saturday at Proctor Funeral Home.