Dorothy Rene McKinney

On March 5, 1943, a beautiful baby girl named Dorothy Rene Murphy was born in Memphis, Tennessee, to the proud parents John and Alberta Murphy. The growing family later moved to Indianapolis, Indiana, where Dorothy remained the youngest of five children for 18 years until her baby sister arrived.

Dorothy was an honor student while attending Indianapolis Public School #37 and continued to excel academically, graduating from Crispus Attucks High School in 1961 as a scholar.

At an early age, Dorothy accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior. On September 18, 1977, she became a devoted member of Breeding Tabernacle CME Church. She served faithfully in many capacities, including the Missionary Society, the Children’s Ministry, and the Christian Board of Education. However, her heart belonged to the Food and Clothing Pantry, which she helped to found and supported passionately until her untimely passing. Always ready to give her time, talents, and finances, she lived to advance the Kingdom of God.

One of her most cherished contributions was overseeing the meal for Family Dinner in January. Dorothy would begin preparing days in advance—recruiting help wherever she could and playfully “voluntelling” others to assist. Whether at church or at home, her meals were legendary. Her chicken and dumplings and hot water cornbread will be remembered and deeply missed. Her kitchen was always open, and her home was a place of love and gathering for all.

Dorothy’s love language was acts of service. She had a heart of gold and found deep joy in caring for others. She took pride in perfectly ironing clothes—taming even the most stubborn 100% cotton shirt with ease. She delivered food boxes to homeless shelters, local motels, and neighbors in need. She accompanied cancer patients to their treatments and did their laundry during their most vulnerable times. Gifted and crafty, she kept a well-stocked craft room to create gift baskets for any occasion. Her green thumb brought beauty to her yard, one of the most admired in the neighborhood.

After the passing of her father, Dorothy became the devoted caregiver of her mother for 23 years. Later in life, she was lovingly known as “MeMa” to her grandchildren and as “Other Mother” or “Momma Dorothy” to many others who adored her.

On the morning of July 27, 2025, as the sun rose and the morning dew moistened the grass like tears, Dorothy received her wings and danced her way to the Lord. Fittingly, she left us on a Sunday morning—marching in with the Saints. God did not send an angel to bring her home; Jesus came Himself for His faithful servant. We find comfort in knowing that she is no longer in pain and now rests in the arms of her Savior.

Dorothy leaves behind her loving children: DeLynn McKinney, Jimmy McKinney (Faith), and Shellie McKinney; her beloved grandchildren: Jeremy McClendon, Mauricia McKinney, Donovan Norris, and Camille Norris; and her cherished great-grandchildren: Lauryn, Levi, and Royce.

She is also survived by her devoted siblings: Vernita Patterson, Lucille Barlow (Dennis), Lyland Murphy-Ward (Milton), and James Buford Tunstell.

Dorothy was blessed with beloved godchildren: Velvet Hawkins, Whitnee Clark, Loren Williams, and Blair Wells; and treasured grand-dogs: Winston, Isley, April, and Teddy.

She is preceded in death by her parents, John and Alberta Murphy; her firstborn daughter, Denise Rochelle McKinney; brothers John H. Murphy Jr. and Henry Tunstell (Rhoda); and two dearly loved grand-dogs, JC and Mr. Johnson.

She also leaves behind a host of family members and friends who will forever hold her in their hearts.

A visitation for Dorothy will be held Friday, August 8, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Crown Hill Funeral Home & Cemetery, 700 W. 38th St., Indianapolis, Indiana 46208, followed by a celebration of life at 12:00 PM.