James McKee

James McKee obituary, Farmers Branch, TX

James McKee

James McKee Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Merit Memorial Funeral & Cremation Care - Dallas on Oct. 1, 2025.

Publish in a newspaper

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of James Francis McKee, born on June 26, 1939, in Philadelphia to James and Eva McKee. Jim departed from this world on February 21, 2024, surrounded by his loving family and a cherished friend.
Jim was the quintessential people person, always eager to engage with anyone in any situation and ready to share stories from his years of travel and experiences. He had a remarkable ability to form deep and meaningful relationships with those he encountered.
Jim was a proud graduate of Drexel University in Philadelphia and a loyal member of the Alpha Pi Lambda fraternity. He also attended and was a member of the first graduating class of Father Judge High School in Philadelphia
Jim took immense pride in his nearly 35-year tenure at Caltex Petroleum, where he began as an engineer in 1963. His engineering work led him to Germany, Greenland, and then, accompanied by his family, to Bahrain, the Philippines, Australia, South Korea, and South Africa. He then transferred to the Purchasing Department and settled the family outside of New York City. When Caltex relocated to Dallas, Texas, in 1982, the family followed. Jim retired as the manager of the Purchasing Department in 1996. It is not possible to say which phase of his career he enjoyed the most as he only had good stories to share of both.
Predeceased by his beloved wife, Cathie, in 1996, their love knew no bounds. He was also preceded in death by his sister Eleanor Costantino. He is survived by his three loving children, Patrick, Chris, and Meg, and his four cherished grandchildren, Timothy, Emily, Beckett, and Bellamy, who were the most important people in his life. He will also be fondly remembered by his daughter-in-law Jennifer, beloved nieces, nephews, sisters- and brothers-in law, co-workers, and friends.
In accordance with his wishes, there will be no viewing or service. Jim simply requested that you raise a glass in his memory at any of the many celebrations to come. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of James, please visit our Tree Store.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

How to support James's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor James McKee's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign James McKee's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?