Jeffrey D. McGinnis

Jeffrey "Jeff" D. McGinnis, age 53, of Sparta, WI, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 12, 2025, at Unity Health in Searcy, Arkansas, surrounded by his wife and loved ones. He was born on October 6, 1972, in Sparta to Allan and Diana (Dockerty) McGinnis.
Jeff met the love of his life, Charla (Dennis), in 1989, and they were married on October 20, 1990. Together they built a beautiful life and raised eight children: Andrew (Bub) McGinnis, Brittany McGinnis, Tiara McGinnis, Victoria Shepard, Alexandrea Erickson, Dylan McGinnis, Hailey Rae Talley, and Maddie Talley.
Jeff's life was defined by his love for his family and his deep appreciation for the outdoors. He loved camping, hunting, fishing, and sharing those passions with anyone willing to listen or learn. For Jeff, these were more than hobbies, they were a way of life that connected him to nature and the people he loved most. He especially treasured family vacations, and the memories made on each trip.
Those who knew Jeff will remember his warm heart, easygoing spirit, and quick wit. He found joy in life's simple pleasures and had a gift for making everyone around him laugh. Above all, Jeff cherished his role as a loving husband, devoted father, proud grandfather, and loyal son.
Jeff is survived by his wife, Charla; his children, Andrew (Bronte) McGinnis, Brittany McGinnis, Tiara (Tyler) McGinnis, Victoria (Tyler) Shepard, Alexandrea Erickson, Dylan (Jolene) McGinnis, Hailey Rae Talley, and Maddie Talley; and his beloved grandchildren, Evelynn, Ganon, Kaidyn, Karsyn, Kamdyn, Kataleya, Adam, Lilith, Zayn, Matthew, Lucas, Maya, Ezra, Micah, and Leuriah.
He is also survived by his siblings, Kathy McGinnis, Anna Schwender, David (Candy) McGinnis, Gerald (Bev) McGinnis, and Tonya (Jan) Shaw, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and other loved ones.
Jeff was preceded in death by his mother, Diana McGinnis; his father, Allan McGinnis; grandparents, Charlene "Shy" Dockerty, Ortlyn "Boots" Dockerty, Ronald McGinnis, and Norma McGinnis; and his sister, Kristine McGinnis.
Jeff's legacy of love, laughter, and strength will live on through the family and friends who will miss him deeply but carry his memory in their hearts forever.
Family and friends are invited for a visitation on Thursday, October 23, 2025, from 2:00pm until 5:00pm at the Torkelson Funeral Home in Sparta. The Torkelson Funeral Home of Sparta is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com.