James Gordon "Jim" McKinley Jr.

MCKINLEY, James Gordon "Jim", Jr., age 88, of Richmond, passed away November 11, 2022. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Eugenia Turner McKinley (Jeanie) of 64 years; and his parents, James Gordon McKinley and Gertrude Beale McKinley. Jim is survived by his three children, James Gordon McKinley III, Gray Turner McKinley and Megan McKinley Clarkson; and six grandchildren who affectionately knew him as "Grandy."

Jim was an accomplished musician (saxophone, clarinet and piano) who loved all types of music, but most importantly, jazz and big band. He attended Thomas Jefferson High School (where he met his wife, Jeanie), the University of Virginia and the University of Richmond. He graduated from the University of Richmond in 1958 with a B.A. in English. His musical achievements include playing first chair saxophone in the Thomas Jefferson High Orchestra, as well as saxophone for the very popular college band, The Sophisticats. Jim was also a lifelong, proud Presbyterian who served as a deacon and elder at River Road Presbyterian Church.

In 1959, Jim began his career as a manager for Old Dominion Freight Line in Newport News. Quickly thereafter, he began his term as VP of Sales for Old Dominion Truck Leasing for a period of 10 years in Richmond. He then decided to start his own defense contracting company, Industrial Conservation, where he served as president for 30 years.

Jim was a dedicated leader with strong integrity who always made time for family and friends. Whether it was through a family vacation, the annual Christmas party he and Jeanie hosted, his involvement in the bridge club, a lifetime love of photography or his teaching of card games to his children and grandchildren, Jim gave so much joy to those lucky enough to know him. A man of quick wit, Jim was, above all, a devoted family man and husband, a true gentleman and a man of strong faith. He will be dearly missed.

A private family service will be held November 28. Memorial gifts may be made in his name to River Road Presbyterian Church in Richmond.