Della Dean McKee

Della Dean "Smith" McKee age 88 was born in Dutch Mills, Arkansas, on February 29th, 1936. She went to be with the Lord October 7th, 2024.
Della finished out her earthly days in the beautiful home she built together with her husband, Coy. Della married the love of her life, Coy, on July 13th, 1955 and together they shared a remarkable journey lasting almost 65 years. Her and Coy together were cattle farmers and raised chickens for Tyson for 30+ years. Della achieved Top Grower Status which reflects her value for hard work and love for farming.
Della's life was defined by a deep faith in Jesus and immense care for others. She was an active member of Illinois Chapel where she volunteered many hours from leading bible studies to facilitating Vacation Bible Schools. She spent many years volunteering with Life Ministries where she poured herself out to serve others. Della had many gifts and talents which she generously shared with those around her. She enjoyed painting, ceramics, sewing and embroidery. She was skilled in canning, cooking and gardening. She was quick to teach family and friends her skills and share recipes to pass down in the generations. She is famous in her family for her amazing peanut brittle, chocolate pie and sausage gravy.
Della was surrounded by a lifetime of dear friends and family for whom she cared deeply for.
Della was preceded by her beloved husband, Coy McKee. She is survived by her loving son Dewain McKee (LeAnn) and daughter Karla Gray (Bill). She is also survived by her five grandchildren: Travis McKee, Whitney McCash (Marcus), Brooke Bagley (Clint), Matthew Gray (Sara), and Megan Alkire (Seth). She also continues her legacy through her 9 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
Della will be remembered as a woman of unwavering faith, immense generosity, and a patient teacher. Her legacy will continue to inspire and guide those who were fortunate enough to have known her. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will forever live on in the hearts of her family and friends.
Visitation is scheduled for Friday, October 11, 2024 from 6:00-7:00pm at Luginbuel Funeral Home.
Funeral service will be held at Illinois Chapel Church on Saturday, October 12, 2024 at 10:00 am to celebrate Della's life and honor her memory.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Illinois Chapel Church.
P.O. Box 315,Prairie Grove, Arkansas 72753