Anthony McKinney

Anthony McKinney tragically passed away, Saturday, October 19, 2019 at the age of 62. 

He is preceded in death by his parents, Gene Paul and Beulah Mae McKinney.  His life’s journey began with them in his birthplace of Ft. Walton Beach, Florida on February 4, 1957, where he grew up to become extremely proud of his hometown heritage, fully embracing his community and passionately fascinated with the vibrant history of his city.  He was a graduate of Ft. Walton Beach High School, class of 1976.

He is mourned by his soulmate and wife, Edna McKinney and his beloved children and their spouses, Leonora and Timothy Riley, Anthony Jr. and Allison McKinney, Marcus and Stephen Maschmedt, Paul, Ashley and Jordan McKinney and his faithful sidekick and fur-baby, Dolce (although, he’d never admit how much he absolutely adored her).  His rich legacy continues with his precious grandchildren, Tim Jr., Shyheim, DeWayne, Shynika, Shylexis, Kaylan, Kandice, Noah Anthony, Kodi, Mila and Melina, as well as his great-grandchild, Moriah Grace and also his former wife, Paulita Estrella. 

Anthony McKinney is survived by his cousin and family matriarch, Patricia Florence and relatives Frankie Armstrong of Virginia, James Davis of Köln, Germany; Henry McGoley and MaryAnn Armstrong of Ft. Walton Beach, Florida.  He also leaves behind Ohio and Virginia family members, Mecia Thomas, Uncle Hicks, Walter McKinney, Dick Dickerson, Samuel McKinney, Louis McKinney, Joe Harrison, Tommie Davis and Lillian Hamilton.  

While there are abundantly more members of Anthony’s substantial family tree remaining unmentioned, their value is still quite significant, speaking volumes as to the impact his death leaves on so many.  This number is compounded by the numerous individuals who’ve come to know and love him throughout his life. Whether it’s through his 10 years of military of service, career of 25 years in the grocery retail industry, or a chance encounter at one of the flea markets he loved to frequent - everyone who had the privilege of knowing Anthony knew that he’s never met a stranger in his life! 

It didn’t take long for any friend of Anthony’s to come to the understanding that some of the wonderful things that totally define him, like his extreme dedication to the Miami Hurricanes as their number 1 mega-fan, or his crazy passion for the music of his generation, that 70’s soul music he would blast nonstop; none of those can be topped by the adoration he had for his wife whom he cherished and ultimately, most of all, the depth of passion for fatherhood and the love he carried deep in his heart for his children, his pride and joys.  They have always been and continue to be, his legacy.  

Please come and join us in honoring his legacy and celebrating the life of Anthony McKinney on Saturday, October 26, 2019.  A time of visitation will begin at 12:00 p.m with funeral services beginning at 1:00 p.m. at Davis Watkins Funeral Home, 113 Racetrack Rd NE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547.  There will be a gathering for everyone with food and fellowship immediately following the services at Marina Bay Resort, 80 Miracle Strip Parkway SE, Ft. Walton Beach, FL, 32547.