Obituary

Della Dean “Smith” McKee age 88 was born in Dutch Mills, Arkansas, on February 29th, 1936. She went to be with the Lord October 7th, 2024.

Della finished out her earthly days in the beautiful home she built together with her husband, Coy. Della married the love of her life, Coy, on July 13th, 1955 and together they shared a remarkable journey lasting almost 65 years. Her and Coy together were cattle farmers and raised chickens for Tyson for 30+ years. Della achieved Top Grower Status which reflects her value for hard work and love for farming.

Della’s life was defined by a deep faith in Jesus and immense care for others. She was an active member of Illinois Chapel where she volunteered many hours from leading bible studies to facilitating Vacation Bible Schools. She spent many years volunteering with Life Ministries where she poured herself out to serve others. Della had many gifts and talents which she generously shared with those around her. She enjoyed painting, ceramics, sewing and embroidery. She was skilled in canning, cooking and gardening. She was quick to teach family and friends her skills and share recipes to pass down in the generations. She is famous in her family for her amazing peanut brittle, chocolate pie and sausage gravy.

Della was surrounded by a lifetime of dear friends and family for whom she cared deeply for.
Della was preceded by her beloved husband, Coy McKee. She is survived by her loving son Dewain McKee (LeAnn) and daughter Karla Gray (Bill). She is also survived by her five grandchildren: Travis McKee, Whitney McCash (Marcus), Brooke Bagley (Clint), Matthew Gray (Sara), and Megan Alkire (Seth). She also continues her legacy through her 9 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Della will be remembered as a woman of unwavering faith, immense generosity, and a patient teacher. Her legacy will continue to inspire and guide those who were fortunate enough to have known her. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will forever live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

Visitation is scheduled for Friday, October 11, 2024 from 6:00-7:00pm at Luginbuel Funeral Home.

Funeral service will be held at Illinois Chapel Church on Saturday, October 12, 2024 at 10:00 am to celebrate Della’s life and honor her memory.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Illinois Chapel Church.
P.O. Box 315,Prairie Grove, Arkansas 72753
Funeral Service

10:00 am
Illinois Chapel Church
Visitation

6:00 pm
Luginbuel Funeral Home
Final Resting Place
General

Feb 28, 1936

Oct 7, 2024

88

Tributes

Dwain & Karla, Remembering your mom as a beautiful, spunky lady. Sending love and prayers during this difficult time. May the Lord be your comfort and guide now and always. From the Beal family: Alan, Nancy & Connie
Nancy (Beal) Elms - Friend
I loved this sweet lady so much! She was always so loving and kind to me, and I always thought she was so beautiful, inside and out. My heart goes out to her family during this difficult time, and I am praying for comfort and peace for each of you. With deepest sympathy, Melinda Dobbs
Melinda Dobbs - Friend
Karla, you are in my thoughts and prayers. Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort.
Mart S Phillips - Schoolmate
Karla and Dewain, my most heartfelt condolences to you and the family. Remembering your mom as a very kind and sweet lady. She was a very dear friend. She will be missed and always remembered. She loved her family dearly! Above all, “She loved the Lord our God” With my deepest sympathies.
Juanita Davenport - Friend
Miss Della was such a sweet lady when i was younger my mom always took me and brother down to her house when she was firing my moms ceramics and she always had a smile on her face and welcomed us in like we were family she will be missed
Kyle Bartz - Friend
Sorry to hear about Della. I grew up with her and her family. She was a great lady. I will miss her.
Bobby Abshier - Friend/Family.
Funeral Service

10:00 am
Illinois Chapel Church
Visitation

6:00 pm
Luginbuel Funeral Home
Final Resting Place
General

Feb 28, 1936

Oct 7, 2024

88