Cleo McKinney

Cleo McKinney, a resident of Rochester but longtime Beacon native and surrounding areas, passed away on September 27, 2025 in his home. He was 70 years old.

Cleo was born on December 18, 1954 in Sylvania, Georgia, the son of the late Herman McKinney and Ida McKinney. Cleo was a proud mechanical and AutoCAD engineer and loved his duties. Cleo was known for his kind and generous spirit - he often said he had a "bleeding heart," and those who knew him felt the truth of that. He loved his children and family deeply, and was a down-to-earth, hard-working man who simply wanted to be accepted for who he was.

Beyond his love for family, Cleo's second great love was tennis, a passion that was part of him to his core. Whether on the court or in daily life, his dedication, perseverance, and heart shone through.

He will be remembered always for his kindness, his love, and the way he made others feel valued. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and strength that will live on in the hearts of his family and friends

Cleo is survived by his loving children Darrell McKinney, Jazmine Burton and husband Vincent, Cleo McKinney Jr. and step-son Sharif Haywood; brothers Clifton McKinney and wife Gloria, Timothy McKinney and wife Crystal, foster-brothers Calvin Figgures and wife Sharon, Glenn Smith and wife Christine; wife of Clyde McKinney, Tina; beloved grandchildren Amayah, Jailah, Milo, Amyliah, and many close cousins.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brother Clyde McKinney.

Family and friends will gather on Saturday, October 11 from 12 to 2 p.m. at Riverview Funeral Home by Halvey, 2 Beekman Street, Beacon. A funeral service will be held at the funeral home at 1 pm. Immediate family will be meeting privately after services.

To send a personal condolence please visit www.riverviewbyhalvey.com.

Funeral arrangements are under the care of Riverview Funeral Home by Halvey, LLC.