GALENA, KS —
Jerry Lee McKinzie, age 54, passed away at 2:40 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 24, 2012, at Mercy Hospital, Joplin, Mo., following an illness. The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff and nurses in the Palliative care unit.
Jerry was born Aug. 15, 1958, in Joplin. His parents were William Edward "Ike" and Dorothy H. (Brandon) Martin McKinzie. He had lived in the Joplin/Galena area all of his life. He was currently living with his sister, Donna Gandy in Galena.
He worked several years at O K Tire Co., Joplin. His favorite pastime was spending time at Stateline Bar, which he affectionately called "his office". He enjoyed walking, fishing and camping.
He was married to Ruth Young on Oct. 28, 2007, in Galena.
Surviving is his estranged wife, Ruth McKinzie, Galena; his mother, Dorothy H. Brandon Martin, Galena; two sons, Jerry Lee McKinzie Jr. and Chris Lee McKinzie, both of Galena; one daughter, Misty Dawn Pietrzak, Joplin; his immediate brother and sister, Donna Gandy and Kenny Shelton, both of Galena; and two grandchildren, Austin Staleton and Alivah McKinzie. Other siblings include five brothers, William McKinzie, Joplin, Kenneth McKinzie, Troy, Mont., Michael McKinzie, Troy, Edward McKinzie, Troy, and Anthony Cox, Joplin; three sisters, Chera Cox, Joplin, Sandy Link, Galena, and Lisa Ryan, Joplin; many nephews and nieces that he loved and that loved him; and a very special thank you to Lisa and Hill who made sure Jerry got home safe and sound. He was preceded in death by his father and brothers, Brian Douglas McKinzie, Terry McKinzie and Roy Lee Cox.
The body was taken for cremation under the care of Derfelt Funeral Home, Galena. The family plans to gather for a Celebration of Jerry's life at 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 1, at "his office".
Online condolences may be made at www.derfeltfuneralhomes.com
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