Bryan McKinney

Just two months before his 80th birthday, Bryan Lee McKinney gently entered the presence of the Lord on October 31, 2025, in Waukesha, Wisconsin. He passed peacefully under hospice care with his children and family close by, just the way he lived, surrounded by love. Bryan was adored by those who knew him; a steady, kindhearted man whose warmth, humor, and gentleness left a lasting imprint on many lives.

Born on January 2, 1946, in Breckenridge, Texas, to Oscar Bryan and Maxine Faubion McKinney, Bryan spent his early years in Texas alongside his sister before the family eventually settled in Arlington. He graduated from Arlington High School and continued on to the University of Texas at Arlington. His love of learning ultimately led him to the University of Oregon, where he completed his PhD in chemistry, an achievement he carried with quiet pride.

Bryan went on to enjoy a long and meaningful career in his field, contributing his talents to companies including Johnson Controls, Gould, and Batelle. His work took him and his family to cities across the country; Columbus, Chicago, Detroit, and San Diego, each chapter adding to the rich story of his life. Among his many achievements, Bryan was especially proud to be a named inventor on four U.S. patents. These patents stand as a lasting testament to his brilliance, curiosity, and dedication to innovation. Through all of his professional accomplishments, Bryan always remained humble and grounded, always putting his family first.

In 1998, Bryan married Mary, the love of his life, and together they built a home filled with devotion, laughter, and unwavering companionship. After retiring in Frisco, Texas, Bryan and Mary eventually moved to Mukwonago, Wisconsin, in December of 2023 to live with his daughter Jennifer and her family, where Bryan enjoyed precious, everyday moments with the people who cherished him most.

Faith was the quiet anchor of Bryan’s life. He participated for many years in The Gideons International and was active in church communities wherever he lived. His relationship with God was deeply personal, steady, and sincere. One of his final journal entries captured his heart so clearly:

“I am a sinner saved by the grace of God and by the sacrifice of my Lord Jesus Christ. I look forward to being in God’s presence. His Word has been an eternal blessing to me and constant one.”

Those words now offer comfort to his family, knowing that the peace he longed for is the peace he now holds.

Bryan is survived by his beloved wife Mary; his children Samuel McKinney, Jennifer Worthem (Chad), Joel McKinney (Katie), Adriane Jevnick (Jason), and Alicia Jevnick; and his sister Cynthia Jane Hewell (Rob). His grandchildren Emily, Courtney, Dylan, Carson, Adriana, Timothy, Tyler, Peyton, Antonio, Alexis, Sydnee, Bryce; and great grandchildren Gianna, Rayven, and Braxton, all brought him immense joy and pride. He also leaves behind many cousins, especially his “Dallas cousins,” with whom he enjoyed adventures and the simple pleasure of searching for the best hamburgers in town.

Bryan was preceded in death by his parents, many aunts, uncles, cousins, and by his faithful canine companion, Rory.

A family-and-friends memorial service will be held on December 20, 2025, from 1-4pm, at Stonebriar Funeral Home,

10375 Preston Road, Frisco, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to Operation Kindness/Texas Lifesaving Animal Shelter (operationkindness.org).

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Closing Tribute

As we say goodbye, we hold close the words Bryan wrote near the end of his journey:

“I look forward to being in God’s presence.”

Today, we honor a man who lived with humility, loved without hesitation, and walked through life with quiet faith. Though we will miss his gentle smile, his thoughtful conversations, and his steady presence, we take comfort in knowing he is now exactly where his heart longed to be, resting in the eternal peace and joy of God’s presence.

May we carry Bryan’s kindness forward, remembering the way he made others feel seen, heard, and loved. And may his life continue to inspire us to walk with the same grace, humility, and faith that he did.