Frank McKay

Obituary For Frank McKay

On January 8, 2025, the angels gently descended to earth, and God whispered, calling Frank McKay home. With grace and peace, Frank answered His call, leaving this world behind to embrace his eternal rest.

Frank McKay was born on October 26, 1946, in Marianna, Florida (Jackson County) to the late Oliver McKay and Hettie Dudley McKay. Growing up in Panama City, Florida (Bay County), he attended Rosenwald High School, where he was a proud graduate in the class of 1964. As a young boy at the tender age of 11, Frank discovered a love for golf while caddying at local courses. This early experience ignited a passion that would remain with him throughout his life. Frank played golf as often as he could, participating in tournaments across the nation.

As a young child, Frank was baptized at New Hope Missionary Baptist Church in Lynn Haven, Florida. In his later years, he made the heartfelt decision to rededicate his life to Christ, joining Sarasota’s Bethel CME Church in 2021. Though he expressed his faith in quiet and personal ways, Frank deeply appreciated the sense of community and spiritual connection he found there. This renewed commitment brought him peace and guidance, enriching his journey through life’s later chapters.

Frank’s sense of responsibility and devotion led him to enlist in the United States Air Force, where he served his country with honor and distinction. Through his service,
Frank traveled the world, broadening his perspective and deepening his appreciation for hard work, discipline, and sacrifice. After leaving the military, Frank relocated to Sarasota, Florida, where he began a long and fulfilling career with National Airlines, dedicating 20 years to the aviation industry. Following his time with the airline, Frank transitioned to public service and worked for Sarasota County Schools, heading the print shop for several years before retiring.

In addition to his love for golf, Frank had a passion for reading, gardening, landscaping, and building. He took immense pride in maintaining a beautiful yard, often spending hours perfecting every detail. His work ethic and meticulous attention to detail were evident in everything he touched, whether it was planting flowers or building a shed. He was rarely idle and found great satisfaction working with his hands.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents, Oliver McKay, and Hettie Dudley McKay, He was also preceded in death by eight siblings: Noreatha Oliver, Willie McKay, Arthur McKay, Susie Lee Worlds, Leonia Gipson, William Gibson, Bennie McKay-Crummer, and Edward Charles McKay.

Frank met the love of his life, Elma J. McKay, 28 years ago, and they were married for 25 wonderful years. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and enduring memories. Elma was his confidant, partner, and greatest source of joy, and their union stood as a testament to mutual respect, unwavering support, and deep affection. Both Frank and Elma brought children into the marriage, and over time, the children
developed deep bonds as siblings, proving that family is not just about blood, but the relationships we build and the experiences we share.

Frank’s legacy lives on through his devoted wife, Elma, and his beloved children: Angela Myatt, Montel Thomas, Donald McKay, and Frank O.P. McKay. He was also a proud father to his bonus sons, Myron Browning, Tyron Deener, and Tyson Deener. His siblings, Judy Mabone, Dorothy McKay-Wright, Rose McKay-Regins, and Linda McKay Crutchfield, will forever hold his memory close. Special nephews Roy Wilson and Michael Worlds, along with his 24 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and countless friends, also survive him.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Horizons Unlimited Christian Academy, 2674 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Sarasota, Florida 34234, in memory of Frank McKay. Funeral arrangements by Jones Funeral Home

Wake:
Friday, January 17, 2025
5:30 - 7:30 PM
Bethel CME Church
1719 22nd Street
Sarasota, FL 34234

Homegoing Service:
Saturday, January 18, 2025
2:00 PM (Repast immediately after)
Bethlehem Bible Church
1680 18th Street
Sarasota, FL 34234

Burial:
Monday, January 20, 2025
11:30 AM
Sarasota National Cemetery
9810 State Road 72
Sarasota, FL 34241