James Michael McKinney, Sr.

James Michael McKinney, Sr., born on March 16, 1953, in Athens, Georgia, passed away on March 27, 2026, in Charleston, South Carolina. He was a dedicated and hardworking man who spent much of his life working as a heavy equipment mechanic for The Loaf Company and Louisiana Pacific. After retirement, Mike embraced poultry farming, operating a broiler farm in Oglethorpe County then later in Colquitt County. Mike was a beloved father to Tonya (Jason) Lewis, Michael McKinney, and Jim (Amy) McKinney. He cherished his role as a grandfather to Tyler Burrell, Peyton Lewis, Michael Cole McKinney, Madison Caroline McKinney, Parker McKinney, and Nolan McKinney. Mike is survived by his brother Larry McKinney and his devoted fiancé Terri Pulaski. He was preceded in death by his loving parents, Walter W. McKinney and Julie Mae Phillips McKinney, and his brother Ray McKinney. Together, they form part of the family history that Mike carried with him. Friends and family are invited to pay their respects at the visitation held on April 1, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes, East Chapel. The funeral service will follow the next day, April 2, 2026, beginning at 2:00 PM at Lord & Stephens Funeral Home, East Chapel. Burial will follow at Old Edwards Baptist Church Cemetery which is now Genesis Church. Lord and Stephens Funeral Home, EAST, Athens, GA is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com