Mary Jo McKinney, 88, of Noblesville, passed away May 7, 2025. She was born September 16, 1936 in Shongaloo, Louisiana to the late Milton and Mary Innie (Dean) Newsom. Mary Jo was a graduate of Fair Park High School, Shreveport, LA. She received her undergraduate degree from Centenary University, and her master’s degree from the University of Oklahoma. Mary Jo married Alfred L. McKinney June 3, 1960, and he preceded her in death September 20, 2020 after 60 years of marriage. She began her teaching career at Norman High School in Oklahoma then went on to serve as the first Principal of Kingston Christian Academy from 1976 to 1986. Next she taught at Louisiana State University before becoming a professor at the American School of Business. She was a member of Delta Pi Epsilon, a Graduate Fraternity for Business Education. Mary Jo was also a former member of Kings Temple United Pentecostal Church, Shreveport, and a current member of Heart & Soul Church, Fishers.
Her upbringing and education, combined with her love of the Lord and generosity towards others meant Mary Jo never met a stranger. She inspired countless of her students and peers and was loved by all she came in contact with. Mary Jo had many names including Jo Jo, Joby Lou from Shongaloo, Mo Jo, Aunt Mary, and most commonly she was simply referred to as Grandma (by anyone who met her). She was so lovingly nicknamed because she was someone everyone could always turn to. Knowing Mary Jo was praying for you was an instant confidence boost, as she reassured you you had a warrior on your side; a fierce woman, in faithful communion with Jesus, rooting for you. As a humble servant of the Lord, nothing made her happier than cooking you a good Southern meal; she was most famous for her heavenly banana pudding from scratch. Mary Jo was just as good a musician as a cook. Throughout her life she sang Alto as well as played the pump organ, accordion, and piano. She was devoted to sharing her talents at church over decades and even recorded a Gospel album in Nashville. Her friends and family were her pride and joy and she always had a wealth of stories to share with all. She brought laughter and fun everywhere she went. Her passion was taking care of those she loved. That is what guided her to lead the beautiful, Christlike life we were blessed to have witnessed.
Visitation will be Friday, May 16th, 2025 from 10:00 a.m.-12 p.m. until the time of service at 12:00 p.m. at Kings Temple United Pentecostal Church, 8951 Kingston Road, Shreveport, LA 71108. Interment will follow at Centuries Memorial Park Cemetery.
She was additionally preceded in death by her sisters Geraldine Posey and Betty Ellis, her nephew Jimmy Barnard, Rosa and Eugene Walton, and her son-in-law Phil Yadon.
Mary Jo is survived by her devoted daughter, Debra L. Yadon; grandchildren; Chad (Michelle) Yadon, Chelsea Yadon, Charity (Zachariah) Cruse, and Chase (Morghan) Yadon; and great-grandchildren, Danyelle, Ezra and Jude. She is loved by Anna Jenkins and Carolyn Noles, her dear sister-in-laws whom she considered her sisters. She is also remembered by her nieces and nephews; Kathy Snider (Jim), Carla Clanton, Randy Ellis (Carrie), Renee’ Poe, Terry McDonald (Doreen), Mike McDonald (Susan), Pat McDonald (Jo), Paul Jenkins (Jana), Tim Jenkins (Linda), Kristy Fair (Lee), Todd Noles (Cheri) and honorary daughter Wanda Walton Van Dorn. Furthermore, she is cherished by many great grand nieces and nephews as well as a multitude of beloved, life-long friends.
Memorial Contributions are suggested to Tupelo Children’s Mansion.
