Jean Makray McKinley

Jean Makray McKinley passed away on February 9, 2026, in Dallas, Texas, at the age of 98. Born November 21, 1927, in Jersey City, New Jersey, she spent her formative years in West Orange, New Jersey. During her time at Saint Lawrence University, Jean met the love of her life, Howard McKinley. After graduation, they maintained a long-distance relationship for two years while Howard pursued his Rhodes Scholarship at Oxford University. Jean insisted that Howard write to her every week if he wished to keep her in his life, and he faithfully did so. While Howard was abroad, Jean worked at Flair magazine in New York City. Upon his return, the couple moved to Houston, Texas, where they married and began a wonderful journey together. Howard's career with Continental Oil Company led them to live in Houston, New York City, London, and Dubai, allowing them to travel extensively throughout Europe and the Middle East. Along the way, they created lasting memories and friendships. In retirement, they settled in London—a city they cherished—where Jean was renowned for her elegance, warmth, and sense of humor, delighting friends and visitors alike. Following Howard's death in 1992 Jean moved to Dallas, Texas where she enjoyed many happy years with family.
Jean was a gracious hostess and talented cook, who found great joy in preparing delicious meals for her loved ones. She was also a gifted gardener and flower arranger, specializing in the Ikebana style of Japanese floral design. An avid reader, Jean once joked that she had read every book in the Highland Park Library. She enjoyed needlepoint and lovingly crafted Christmas stockings for each of her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and their spouses—treasured heirlooms that continue to bring joy to her family. Jean's creativity, generosity, and dedication to her family and friends will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.
Jean is predeceased by her husband, Howard Alexander McKinley, her parents Frances and Eugene Makray, and her granddaughter Whitney Martindale. She is survived by her sister Frances Rose; her daughters Alexandra Martindale, Francine Brandler, and Melanie McKinley; her grandchildren Edward Brandler (Emma), Christopher Brandler (Polly), William Brandler (Kei), Michael Brandler (Ainsleigh), Howard Martindale (CeCe), and Blake Martindale (Cami); and her great-grandchildren Connor, Robin, Charlie, Elijah, Malachai, Grace, and Orson Brandler, as well as Anne-Catherine and Meredith Martindale.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Jean's caregivers and nurse—Lucy Alonzo, Mariam Alonzo, and Sara Denney—for their compassionate care and support in her final years.