Charlie Monroe McKinney

April 5, 1942 - February 11, 2019

Mount Marion – Charlie Monroe McKinney died Monday, February 11, 2019 at home. He was 76 years old. Born April 5, 1942 in Clarkton, VA, he was the son of Phil and Nettie Cook McKinney. On December 11, 1959 he married the former Jean Dalesandris. He retired as a welder from Conrail in 1986. Charlie began his rail road career as a laborer for NY Central and eventually worked through several mergers for the Penn Central RR and eventually Conrail. He worked as a rail inspector and frog welder, he became a dedicated and valued member of the railroad. He was involved in the building and inspection of many railroad bridges including the construction of the Bear Mountain RR Bridge. As an outdoorsman, he enjoyed hunting and fishing and was an avid gardener. He proudly shared his bounty with family, friends, and neighbors. He also enjoyed cooking and was known for his southern hospitality and “dynamite” food dishes. Charlie also loved to capture special moments with family and friends and the beauty of nature, he was known as “the man behind the camera.” His larger than life personality lit up the room and made everyone feel special. His unconditional love, generosity, kindness, and sense of humor were immeasurable. Above all, he cherished and valued his family. In the early 1970’s he was one of the founders of the Mount Marion Athletic Association. This organization, which still thrives today, gave the children and families of Mt. Marion a sense of community. He and the founding members were acknowledged and honored in 2009 for their efforts. Charlie was loved by everyone fortunate enough to know him. He leaves behind a legacy like no other… In addition to his wife, Jean, survivors include his son Charlie of Virginia; his three daughters Tammy (Ernie) of Kingston, Sue and Gail of Saugerties; five grandchildren Shannon (Joe), Heather, Michele (Chris), Melissa (Nick), and Michael (Kayla); five great-grandchildren Anthony, Christopher, Juliana, Gavin and Lucas; three siblings Franklin, Lil, and Barbara; and many nieces, nephews and good friends. He was pre-deceased by six siblings Henry, Fountain, Margaret, Eunice, Leslie, and Philip. Funeral services will be held 11:00 AM Saturday, February 16, 2019 at Kings Fire Church in Lake Katrine. Interment will take place in Mount Marion Cemetery in the Spring. Arrangements are under the direction of Buono Funeral Service, Inc. In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations in his memory be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. To DONATE to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital please CLICK on the link below or past it into your browser https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html?sc_icid=header-btn-donate-now