Minnie Mae McKinney

Minnie Mae McKinney, age 87, of Youngstown, Ohio, passed away peacefully on April 14, 2026.

She was born on May 25, 1938, in Bennettsville, South Carolina, and later relocated to Youngstown, Ohio in 1952. Minnie departed this life at Mercy Health St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, surrounded by loved ones.  Minnie was a devoted woman of faith and a former member of New Vision Missionary Church, under the leadership of the Rev. Chris London Jr.  She was a loving mother, grandmother, and matriarch whose presence brought strength and unity to her family.

She retired from Park Vista as a nurse aide, where she spent years caring for others with compassion and dedication.  Minnie enjoyed cooking, spending time with family, and listening to music—especially The Williams Brothers, The Temptations and Luther Vandross. She was also known for her playful spirit, including her unforgettable habit of tossing marshmallows at her granddaughters while they slept, a memory that will forever bring smiles and laughter to those who loved her.

She leaves to cherish her memory her sons, Howard (Tamara) McKinney of Lanham, MD, and Jerry (Ilona) McKinney of Fort Worth, TX; her daughter, Christine Anderson of Youngstown, OH; her sister, Delores Moore of Youngstown, OH; 14 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; and 15 great-great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her mother and father; her stepfather, James Bass; her sisters, Retha Mae Howard, Mable Bryant Findley, Macie Brandon, Betty Thomas, her brother, Edward Thomas Jr.; her ex-husband and friend, Ocie McKinney, a grandson, Justin Thomas, and great-grandson Aaron Smith.

Minnie’s love, strength, and legacy will live on through the generations she nurtured. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Visitation will be Saturday, April 25, 2026 from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. at the L. E. Black, Phillips and Holden Funeral Home, 1951 McGuffey Rd., Youngstown, OH.   Funeral services will follow at 10:00 a.m.

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