CMSgt Jimmy “Jim” Cecil McKay (Ret. USAF)

Published 5:45 pm Thursday, August 25, 2016

CMSgt Jimmy “Jim” Cecil McKay (Ret. USAF) passed away Sunday August 21, 2016 after a courageous five month battle with liver cancer at First Health Moore Regional Hospital in Pinehurst, North Carolina.

Jim was 68 years old. He is predeceased by his father, Climie “Red” McKay.

He is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Ellen; daughter Angela McKay Dessauer (Frank) of Melbourne, Florida; and granddaughter, Ava Dessauer. Jim is also survived by his mother Betty McKay Carpenter (stepfather Ray) of Dothan, sister Betty Jo McKay Scott (Brent) of Ponce De Leon, Florida, brother Randy Wayne McKay of Bonifay, Florida, stepsister Barbara Rosser (Frank) of Tyler, sister-in-law Mary Cox (Ronnie) of Sanford, North Carolina, Ann McDonald (Ralph) of Cameron, NC; brother-in-law Steve Hempe (Camellia) of Sanford, North Carolina; his loving aunt, Frances Weeden of Dothan; and many nieces and nephews.

Jimmy was born on January 5, 1948, in Greenville and spent his early life in Selma. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force upon graduation from Southside High School in Selma and enjoyed a successful 33 year career in the active and reserve U.S. Air Force attaining the rank of CMSgt.

After retiring from the military, he went on to a highly successful 30 year career in civil service retiring as Fire Chief (GS-13) at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Dayton, Ohio.

Jimmy McKay was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He loved his entire family and was loved by all that met him. He enjoyed spending time and traveling with his family. One of his greatest enjoyments was attending Warner Robins High School football games with his daughter.

Jolly of heart with his family and friends, he was always giving a helping hand to those in need.

He was also a graduate of Troy State University with a degree in Fire Science and received numerous awards and decorations from his military and civil service career.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to FirstHealth Hospice and Palliative Care at 150 Applecross Road Pinehurst, NC 28374.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date in Dothan. Online condolences may be made at www.bolesfuneralhome.com

Boles Funeral Home of Southern Pines is assisting the family.