Gray “Gump” A. McKinley, 85, of Milesburg, passed away on Thursday, February 20, 2014. Gray was born on December 18, 1928 in Boggs Township, son of the late Henry F. and Valetta A. Scandrol of Boggs Township.
On April 16, 1949 he married Evelyn L. Miller who preceded him in death March 12, 2007. In addition to his parents and wife he was preceded in death by 2 sisters Evelyn J. Johnson and Elizabeth (Betty Jean) Eminhizer and 2 brothers Henry W. McKinley and Clyde E. McKinley.
Pride of his life were his two sons, David G. (Betty) McKinley of Howard and Brian “Gump” S. (Brenda) McKinley of State College and his grandchildren, Alyssa McKinley of Millheim and Britten McKinley of State College.
In recent years he liked to tell everyone his constant companion was his “Little Lady”, a kitten he rescued while visiting his wife’s grave. He was instrumental in organizing a widow/widowers support group that met at the Valley Dinner, Wingate, where Gray was a known for assisting the musical groups with his singing. He was a member of the Milesburg United Methodist Church where he served on numerous boards and committees.
He was a veteran having served in the US Navy during WWII. He retired from Graymont. His joy was in being outside either hunting or gardening. He and Evelyn had showcases of flowers and gardens around the home he built himself.
In the 70’s he and Evelyn turned their passion into a business when they owned and operated a Milesburg greenhouse.
Family and Friends will be received at the Dean K. Wetzler Funeral Home, Tuesday, February 25, 2014 from 6 – 8 P.M. Funeral services will be at the Dean K. Wetzler Funeral Home, 201 Spring St., Milesburg, Wednesday, February 26, 2014, at 11 AM. with Rev. Brian D. Vasey officiating. Burial will be in Schencks Cemetery, Howard Twp., Centre Co., Pa. , where military honors will be accorded.
Memorial contributions may be made to Pets Come First, 2451 General Potter Highway, Centre Hall, PA 16828.
Arrangements are under the direction of Dean K. Wetzler Funeral Home, Milesburg, Pa. Online condolences may be made at www.deankwetzlerfuneralhome.com