A visitation will be held on Thursday, March 20, from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM at Radney Funeral Home on Dauphin Street. Funeral services will follow at 12:30 PM, officiated by Reverend Elbert Mosley. After the service, Gary will be laid to rest at the Alabama State Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Spanish Fort.
Born on August 4, 1949, in Rawlins, Wyoming, Gary was the son of Cecil and Evelyn McKinley. He grew up in Mobile, Alabama, and graduated from Vigor High School. On June 14, 1968, he married the love of his life, Linda McKinley, and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and devotion for 56 wonderful years.
Gary dedicated 32 years of service as a firefighter for the City of Mobile, demonstrating courage and commitment to his community. He also proudly served his country as a United States Army veteran during the Vietnam War.
Despite facing a life-altering spinal injury in 1993, Gary remained resilient, finding passion and purpose in wheelchair basketball. He played for five years with the Mobile Patriot Wheelchair Basketball Team, inspiring those around him with his determination and strength.
A man of many talents and interests, Gary had a deep love for antique cars, drag racing, small engine repair, and perfecting his marksman skills. He was also skilled in repairing antique clocks, a hobby he truly enjoyed. Above all, Gary cherished his family and many dear friends. His faith was central to his life, and he lived with steadfast dedication to his beliefs.
Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Cecil and Evelyn McKinley.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Orlinda McKinley; his daughter, Gwen Logan (Kenny); his son, Brett McKinley (Lynn); his brothers, Terry McKinley and Perry McKinley; his grandchildren, Christopher Laughlin, Daniel Laughlin (Cynthia), Katelyn Bryan (Austin), Maggie Collier, and Zack Collier; and his great-grandchildren, Jax Laughlin, Luka Bryan, McKinley Bryan, Magnolia Bryan, Amy Collier-Eubanks, Brad Collier-Eubanks, Cody Collier, Ray Collier, and Thomas Collier.
Gary’s family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors and ICU nurses at Baldwin Health for their compassionate care.
He was deeply loved by all who knew him and will be profoundly missed, but his legacy of strength, kindness, and unwavering faith will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.
