Michael Eugene McKinley, 74, of Sellersburg, Indiana, passed away on Wednesday, January 13, 2021. He was born in New Albany, Indiana, on October 25, 1946. Michael attended Holy Trinity Catholic School and Flaget High School and went on to graduate from New Albany High School in 1965.
He had a career that spanned from 1966 to 1986 in the United States Navy. Michael fought in the Vietnam War and retired with the rank of Radioman Chief Petty Officer. His Naval career gave him the opportunity to travel and see the world.
In 1975 he married Mary Smith, and together they were blessed with two beautiful children, Melissa and Bryan. Michael was a lifelong Catholic with a strong devotion to the Blessed Mother and Sacred Heart of Jesus. He was a member of St. John Paul II Catholic Church in Sellersburg.
Michael was preceded into eternal life by his parents, Anthony "Tony" and Rebecca (Porter) McKinley; and sister, Janet McKinley. He is survived by his wife of over 45 years, Mary; children, Melissa Callahan (John) and Bryan McKinley (Karen); grandchildren, Samantha, Aedan, and Charlie; siblings, Cheryl, Tim, Robert, and Tony McKinley; as well as many nieces and nephews; and lifelong friend, Bill Drechsel.
Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Friday, January 22, 2021, at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions (3309 Ballard Lane, New Albany). His funeral mass will be celebrated at 1:00 p.m. on Friday at St. John Paul II Catholic Church (St. Joe Hill Campus, 2605 W. St. Joe Road, Sellersburg) with entombment and military honors to follow at Kraft-Graceland Memorial Park in New Albany.
Contributions in Michael's memory may be made to the New Albany-Floyd County Animal Shelter (215 W. Market Street, New Albany).
Please consider sharing a memory of Michael or leaving a special message for his family using the "Share Memories" section below.
For the health and safety of our community, masks will be required to attend.