Rev. Charles W. McKinney, age 94, a resident of Wheaton, IL, went to be with his Lord on Wednesday, June 30, 2021, at Central DuPage Hospital in Winfield, Illinois.

Charles was born December 17, 1926 in New Castle, Pennsylvania to Homer and Letitia (nee Edwards) McKinney. On April 22, 1950, he married the former Elizabeth Towers of Dickson City, Pennsylvania. They met at Practical Bible Training School (PBTS) in Binghamton, New York, and celebrated their 71 years of marriage earlier this year.

The most significant day in Chuck's life occurred at age 14 when both he and his parents received Christ as their Savior. On that day he also committed his life to Christian work, made it his calling, and began his preparation for lifelong ministry. He completed PBTS, and a degree from Malone University. He pastored churches in Monongah, West Virginia, Canton, Ohio and Naperville, Illinois. He believed preaching was his calling. Pastorates led to Christian publishing and work at Moody Press, Chicago, and Tyndale House Publishers of Wheaton, IL. Working with Ken Taylor at Tyndale was a highlight of his years in publishing. In retirement, Charles remained active communicating his faith to others, both in person and on the internet. His passion for heaven was a result of his faith, not misplaced faith founded in good works, but a true faith, founded in a living God who grants salvation to all those who repent of their sin and, as a result are cleansed by the death, burial and resurrection of Christ.

In addition to his wife, Elizabeth, he is survived by his children, Paul of Wheaton, IL, David (Katura) of Spokane, WA, Beth Baker of Wheaton, IL, and Steven (Leanne) of Monett, MO. His grandchildren are Kyle (Megan) Baker of Denver, CO, Lisa (Logan) Kreymborg of Spokane, WA, Jori (Jeff) Root and Drew (Emily) Baker of Wheaton, IL, Amanda (Cody) Blalock of Stillwater, OK, Caroline (Kyle) Cavanaugh of Springfield, MO, Daniel (Baylee) McKinney of Kansas City, MO, and Anna McKinney of Spokane, WA. His great-grandchildren are Gehrig, Cruz, Rissa, Mahayla, Everly, Zoey, Kysa, Judah, Casey, and Blair. Survivors also include numerous in-laws, nieces and nephews.

At the request of the family there will be no visitation and the service will be for immediate family only. Two days prior to Charles taking ill, he participated in the ordination of his grandson through marriage. He also has a grandson studying for the ministry. Charles was so grateful that Christian service would continue through his family.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that if you feel led to give to an organization that donations be directed to Wayside Cross Mission, 215 E. New York St., Aurora, IL 60505.