Joseph Thomas McKinney

Joseph Thomas McKinney, Sr., of Rustburg, VA, born in Portsmouth, VA, on September 12, 1944, went to be with the Lord on Monday, November 25, 2024, at the age of 80. Affectionately known as “Snooks” by his friends and family, Joseph is preceded in death by his parents, Henry Clay McKinney and Fannie Jennings McKinney; his brothers, Lawrence Cecil McKinney and Johnnie F. McKinney Sr.; and his sister, Shirley M. Arrington.He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Ava K. McKinney; his devoted son, Joseph Thomas McKinney Jr., and his wife, Debra E. McKinney; his cherished grandson, Joshua N. McKinney Sr.; his granddaughter and best friend, Amber N. McKinney; and his great-grandchildren, Joshua N. McKinney Jr., Elizabeth R. McKinney, and Bentley W. McKinney. He is also survived by his great-nephew, Michael A. McKinney, and his wife, Candace; and his great-niece, Chelsea M. Mendoza, and her husband, John Freddie, whom Joseph loved as his own grandchildren.Additionally, he is survived by his brother, Willie McKinney of Antioch, TN; his sister, Glenda M. Childress of Amherst; and many beloved nieces and nephews, with whom he enjoyed talking, especially on their birthdays. He is now reunited with his beloved nephew, Johnnie F. McKinney Jr., who was like a son to him.Joseph was a member of Fairview Christian Church and attended Tree of Life Church. He was a firm believer that "prayer is the key, but faith unlocks the door."Professionally, Joseph served as the service manager for Virginia Ford in Lynchburg, VA, and worked for many years at Pepsi-Cola Bottling in Lynchburg.The family will receive friends on Friday, November 29, 2024, from 6:00–8:00 PM at Whitten Timberlake Chapel. A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Whitten Timberlake Chapel, with Pastor Mike Dodson officiating.Whitten Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Timberlake Chapel, is honored to serve the family.