McKinney
Joseph Theodore “JT” “Teddy” McKinney, age 74, of Decatur, passed away peacefully on Jan. 5, 2026. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend known for his deep faith, kindness and steady presence in the lives of those he loved.
JT was born on April 10, 1951, and raised in Decatur. In 1973, he married Susan E. “Susie” McKinney, beginning a beautiful life together. They shared nearly 53 years of marriage and built a strong, faith-centered family grounded in their love for God. JT cherished time with family and friends and lived his life as a devoted family man.
He had a lifelong hunger for the word of God. He spent much of his free time reading and studying the Bible, enjoying inspirational books, and listening to his favorite pastors and Bible teachers. A devoted soul winner, he found great joy in sharing the love of Jesus with others. JT loved worship music, singing and playing his guitar, golfing (where he proudly made five hole-in-ones), and fishing. He also found deep joy in coaching, attending, and faithfully supporting his children’s and grandchildren’s sports teams, always present on the sidelines with encouragement and pride.
JT was a devoted member of Rise Church (formerly River of Life) for over 34 years. During that time, he led life group, served in worship leadership, and especially treasured the years he shared the gospel of Jesus Christ and led worship at the MTC Bridgeport Correctional Center, where his heart for bringing hope to others was clearly seen.
JT began his career as a commercial fuel transport driver with Long Oil Company in Decatur. He then spent the next 30 years of his professional life serving as a drug abatement officer for Global Technical Services, AIS, and Strom. He carried himself with humility and integrity, earning the respect and trust of everyone he worked alongside.
JT is survived by his beloved wife, Susie; his children, Shadd McKinney and wife, Suzanne of Keller; Shanna McClung and husband, Dusty of Justin; Andrew McKinney and wife, Erin of North Richland Hills; and Micah McKinney of Decatur. He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren, Kaden and Avery McClung, Asher, Noble, Anson, Ezra McKinney and Aiden McKinney. He leaves behind his brother, Larry McKinney and his wife, Deborah, of Aledo; his sisters, Cathy Reno and husband, Eddie of Winnsboro, and Tamye Delgado of Weatherford; along with many nieces and nephews.
JT was preceded in death by his parents, Ervin Lee (Gar) and Helen (Sipes) McKinney; and his brothers, Jimmy, Billy and Troy McKinney.
A Celebration of Life service will be officiated by James Varnadore on Saturday, Feb. 7, at 2 p.m. at Rise Church in Decatur, with visitation following. There will be no viewing or graveside service.
From the Family:
We will forever be grateful for the life JT lived and the example he set. His love for God, his devotion to his family, and the way he showed up for others shaped us more than words can express. While we miss him deeply, we find comfort in knowing he is at peace and that his legacy of faith, love, and service will live on through all of us.
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