Joseph Arlen “Mac” McKinney, Sr., 92, died May 9, 2024 in Richmond, Virginia.  He was born September 28, 1931 in Rockingham County NC, the oldest son of Ira Bush McKinney and his wife, Brona Stadler. 

He graduated from Reidsville (NC) High School and initially went to work for the telephone company.  Later he started his career in furniture sales while being employed with his father-in-law at the Groome Furniture Company in Greensboro NC.  He brought his well-known work ethic to this endeavor and was instrumental in sustaining and expanding the business, first to McKinney Furniture Rental with five locations for over 22 years and then MacThrift Office Furniture before moving to Virginia with a MacThrift franchise.     

Everyone who knew Mac knew he worked hard, he played hard, and he enjoyed life. He loved to cook, he loved to entertain, and he loved to dance — and he was amazing at all three!   

He had unconditional love for all his family and was fair, kind to everyone, and very generous.  He was a giver not a taker.  He was the same every time you saw him.  He did not judge. He did not speak ill of anyone.    

In his mind, the glass was always half full.  If anyone inquired as to how he was, his answer was invariably, “Happy, happy, happy” and he truly was. 

He was a force.  He was a rock.  He will forever be missed…

He is survived by: his wife of 30 years, Sandra Johns McKinney; children Linda Newton (Graham), Joe McKinney, Jeff McKinney (Jackie), Andy McKinney (Sandra), Laurie Pabers (Greg); grandchildren Sara, David, Jordan, Jackson, Trace, Aida, Beau; seven great-grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren; step-son Rhem Wood (Carrie) and his sons Witt and Graham. 

Mac was the last surviving sibling and was preceded in death by: his parents; three brothers Vernon McKinney, Wayne McKinney, James Garland McKinney; three sisters, Margie McKinney Burton, Wilson McKinney Ashley, Geraldine McKinney; and his ex-wife, Betty Groome McKinney.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, May 18, 2024 at 12 noon at Greenwood Memorial Gardens and Chapel Mausoleums Cemetery Goochland (12609 Patterson Avenue Richmond VA)  

Donations can be made to At Home Care and Hospice, 8149 Walnut Grove Road, Mechanicsville VA 23111.