McKinley Christine Roberts

McKinley was a compassionate, gentle, and radiant soul who loved the Lord Jesus with all her heart, soul, mind, and strength. Her kindness and warmth touched the lives of everyone she encountered, people and animals alike. She embraced life with joy and enthusiasm, bringing light, laughter, and love wherever she went. McKinley was the life of every party, she had a remarkable gift for making others feel seen, valued, and included. Her genuine love for others was evident in every interaction, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Gifted with both a brilliant mind and an unwavering dedication to learning, McKinley graduated from the University of North Florida with a Bachelor of Science in Biology, earning the University's highest academic distinction, Summa Cum Laude. Her passion for science, combined with her deep desire to improve the lives of others, led her to the Cancer Research Laboratories at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville. There, she contributed to pioneering research focused on developing novel therapies for metastatic cancers, leaving a meaningful mark on the scientific community and offering hope to future patients.

Above all, McKinley will be remembered for the way she loved - with a joyful spirit that reflected Christ in all she did. McKinley's love and legacy will be forever cherished by her devoted mother, Cherilyn, her beloved siblings, Montserrat, Buzz, and Caulder, her precious Golden Retriever, Sadie, along with countless family members, friends, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

As we grieve the loss of this extraordinary young woman, we find comfort in the memories of her contagious laughter, steadfast faith, courageous heart, and gentle spirit. Though her time with us was far too short, the love she shared, the lives she touched, and the faith she embodied will continue to inspire all who knew her.

During her time at the University of North Florida, McKinley was a proud member of Alpha Chi Omega, where she formed lifelong friendships and embodied the values of sisterhood, service, and compassion. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made in McKinley's honor to organizations that reflected her compassionate heart and her love for both people and animals: Hubbard House, which provides safety and hope to women survivors of domestic violence, and K9s For Warriors, whose mission of pairing service dogs with veterans was especially meaningful to her.

Rest in peace, our precious McKinley. Until we meet again, your light will continue to shine in our hearts, and your legacy of faith, love for the Lord Jesus, and compassion will live on forever.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial gifts be made in memory of McKinley Christine Roberts supporting Medical Education at Mayo Clinic. McKinley planned on attending medical school, and participated in critical cancer research at Mayo Clinic, under the world renowned Dr Q. Our hope is that her light and future contributions to medicine, will shine on through others in her place.

Donations can be made by phone, online or by mail:

Phone:

Please call 1-855-852-8129 to talk with a team member who can facilitate a secure gift transfer over the telephone.

Online:

Please visit https://give.mayoclinic.org/mc and complete the online form. Select “Dedicate my Donation” and enter “McKinley Roberts”

Mail:

Checks can be written directly to Mayo Clinic and sent to 200 First Street SW Rochester, MN 55905. In the memo please write “In memory of McKinley Roberts”.”