Roger Wayne McKinney

Mr. Roger “Wayne” McKinney, 85, of Pilot Mountain, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 1, 2025, in Winston-Salem, surrounded by his loving wife and children. Wayne was born on November 4, 1940, in Bakersville, North Carolina, to the late Welzie and Neva Gouge McKinney. Wayne lived a life marked by dedication, service, and unshakable faith. He earned his master’s degree in political science and began his professional journey as a teacher and football coach, roles in which he poured his heart into encouraging young people. He later became the Center Director for Job Corps, where he spent many years helping troubled boys find guidance, purpose, and the chance for a better future. After his time with Job Corps, Wayne worked for the Social Security Administration before ultimately transitioning into a career with Prudential Insurance selling stocks and bonds. A devoted follower of Christ from a young age, Wayne walked closely with Jesus throughout his life. He was saved as a child at Fork Mountain Baptist Church in Bakersville. He was a faithful member of Calvary Baptist Church in King, where he served joyfully and consistently. His greatest earthly joy was his family. He loved his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren wholeheartedly, and the name “Papaw” was among his most cherished titles. Wayne is survived by his adoring wife of 62 years, Glenda Sparks McKinney; his daughters and sons-in-law, Beverly McKinney Hamilton and Jeff, Sandra McKinney Weaver and Mike, and Rena McKinney Cook; his son and daughter-in-law, Mike McKinney and Angie; and his beloved grandchildren and their spouses: Holli Nowlin and Drew, Tanner Hamilton and Britnie, Hannah Ayers and Joel, Jennah Weaver, Abigail Cook, Benjamin McKinney and Brianna, and Sarah McKinney. He also leaves behind his precious great-grandchildren: Elise Nowlin, Palmer Nowlin, Liam Mason, Worth Hamilton, Jack Hamilton, and Dixie Mae McKinney; his brother and sisters-in-law, Joe McKinney and Pat, and Mary Howell. A funeral service and celebration of Wayne’s life will be held on Friday, December 5, 2025, at 2:00 in the afternoon at Calvary Baptist Church in King, with Pastor Kevin Broyhill officiating. The family will receive friends at the church from 1:00 until 2:00. A second funeral service will be held on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 12:00 noon at Roan Mountain Baptist Church in Bakersville. Burial will follow in the Green Young Cemetery in Bakersville. Flowers will be accepted or memorials may be made to Calvary Baptist Church, 536 South Main Street, King, North Carolina 27021. Moody Funeral Services in Mount Airy has been entrusted with Mr. McKinney's arrangements.