George Eggleston McKinney passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family, on Friday, January 9, 2026. George was born September 26, 1942, to the late James Quinton and Gladys McKinney in Smithville, MS. George was the eldest of seven children, he set the example for all his siblings.

At an early age, George accepted Christ as his personal Savior and joined St. Paul Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, in Smithville, MS. His commitment to the church was evident through his extensive and dedicated service. George organized/established/sung in Ecru Second Baptist Church’s Choir under the leadership of Rev. Floyd Hodges. He was a devoted member of the adult choir and shared his love of music as the church choir director. He organized and sung in the Male Gospel Choir using his God-given talents to uplift the congregation in praise and worship. In addition to his musical contributions, George served the church in numerous leadership roles. He served faithfully as a deacon until his health failed, yet his commitment to God never wavered. George played a vital role in assisting with the construction of Ecru Second Baptist Church’s “NEW” church building. He also served as Superintendent of Sunday School and as Sunday School teacher, demonstrating his passion for Christian education and nurturing the spiritual growth of others.

George received his formal education in the local school system and graduated from West Amory High School. He furthered his education by attending Okolona Junior College and later received his Cosmetology License from Foster’s Cosmetology School.

George had a deep love for all sports and devoted much of his time to coaching and mentoring young athletes. He served as Head Coach for the Ecru Hell Cats. He also served as Head Basketball Coach for the Ecru Second Baptist Basketball Team, leading them to back-to-back championship victories.

George was known throughout the city for his beautiful and distinctive singing voice. His love for gospel music led him to sing with several groups over the years, including the Rose of Sharon in the 1950s, the Golden Echoes in the 1960s, the Gospel Aires, the Mississippi Echoes, and the Mississippi All Stars. George was also deeply committed to the civil rights movement and never hesitated to stand up for equality and justice.

George was a diligent and hardworking man who served in several professional capacities throughout his life. He began his career as a surveyor in Smithville, MS, and later worked at Cramco in Amory, MS. He went on to work at Keystone Metal Molding, where he served as Director of Quality Control, and later at Piper’s Industries. In the 1990s, George opened his own daycare, McKinney’s Kids, alongside his wife Eloise and his son, Adrian. Through this venture, he nurtured and cared for children in the community. In his later years, George became a business owner and expanded his entrepreneurial spirit alongside his wife Eloise and his son, Kendal. George’s barber shop became well known throughout the community, not only for excellent haircuts but also for the welcoming atmosphere and memorable barber shop jokes and conversations.

George McKinney will be remembered for his unwavering faith, servant’s heart, and lifelong dedication to God and His church. George never met a stranger. His warm spirit and friendly nature made everyone feel welcome, and those who met him quickly knew and loved him for his kindness, humor, and genuine heart.

George is preceded in death by his parents James Quinton and Gladys McKinney; two sisters, Barbara Jones and Janatyar McKinney. George leaves to cherish his memory: his wife, Eloise High, Ecru, MS; two sons, Kendal (Barbara Ann) Ecru, MS, Adrian (Sherry) Southaven, MS; one daughter, Sonya McKinney, Tupelo, MS; three sisters, Gloria High (Joe) Ecru, MS, Teila Lewis (Timothy) Jackson, MS, Brenda Leaper (Troy) Carson City, NV; one brother, Gary (Regina) Nettleton, MS; 5 Grand-children, KenDarius McKinney, Ka’Tyia McKinney, Aiden McKinney, Anthony Stewart Jr., Sharhonda McKinney, David Bowens Jr.; 1 Great Grand-Daughter, Noel Garth; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends.

Visitation will be Friday, January 16, 2026, from 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM at Payton Mortuary. Funeral service will be Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Ecru Second Baptist Church, 350 Central Avenue, Ecru, MS 38841.