Dr. John McKey, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 13, 2017. Dr. McKey was born in Valdosta, Georgia on July 22, 1917. He was the son of Thomas Howard McKey and Edna Baker McKey, and the youngest of four children. John cultivated his love of golf beginning at the age of ten when he first caddied for his father - not carrying his father's clubs, but a thermos of milk instead. He went on to become a life-long competitive golfer, winning many amateur tournaments and making many golfing friends around the country. He still holds the record at Pinehurst #2 making 3 eagles and a birdie on the 4 par fives. He graduated from Valdosta High School, second in his class, and went on to attend Emory University where he received his Doctor of Medicine in 1941. That same year, he married Joyce Ellison Roper in Atlanta, GA. John served overseas as a physician in the United States Navy, and after the war ended, he and Joyce moved to Orlando in 1946. He established his medical practice at 320 N. Main St., and went on to become the first board certified pediatrician in Orlando. Dr. McKey cared for thousands of children and multiple generations of families. He made house calls long after the practice was no longer in style. His calm demeanor reassured parents and endeared him to his patients. Dr. McKey ended every office visit with a lollipop. He retired at the age of 81, becoming the longest practicing physician in Orlando. This achievement is only surpassed by his 71 year marriage to the love of his life, Joyce. He and Joyce enjoyed their later years spending summers in Highlands, North Carolina, where they made many friends and reveled in their morning coffee on the porch. John was a lifelong member of the Central Christian Church, Rotary Club of Orlando, Orlando Country Club and Highlands Country Club. He proudly celebrated his 100th birthday in July with many friends and family. He is preceded in death by his wife. He is survived by his children, John McKey Jr. and Joy McKey. He is also survived by 4 granddaughters, Carrie Grote (Tom), Erin Elliott (Andy), Allison Nichols (Justin), and Ashley Behm (Aaron), as well as 4 great-granddaughters and 1 great-grandson. A celebration of his life will be held on Friday, October 20, at 1:00pm, at The Central Christian Church, 250 S.W. Ivanhoe Blvd. Those wishing are welcome to donation to the Central Christian Church, General Fund, in memory of Dr. McKey.
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