Date Of Birth: March 31, 1929
Date Of Death: March 21, 2010
Ardith “Pat” LaVerne (Brooks) McKinney, 80, of Indianapolis, peacefully passed away on Sunday, March 21, 2010 while surrounded by her family. She was reunited with her beloved husband, Major William Bryant McKinney (USAF), who preceded her in their journey more than 41 years ago. She was born to John “Jack” C. and Alice LaVerne (Martin) Brooks on March 31, 1929, in San Francisco, CA. In 1947, as a vivacious, beautiful young woman she met her future husband while volunteering as a “USO Girl” in Oakland, California. William had enlisted in the US Navy from Warrick County, IN to follow his brothers (Oral, Oran and Jack McKinney) and brother-in-law (Kenneth Curl) into World War II. The couple were married at the Alameda Navel Air Station chapel on May 29, 1948. They became the proud parents of seven children, Bonnie McKinney, Robert McKinney (Naomi), Owen McKinney, Flora Marie McKinney-Stone (Bill), Martin McKinney (Kara) and Patricia McKinney. Their son, William Bryant McKinney, Jr. preceded her with his passing in 2006. Her grandchildren include Eric Mickelson, Tabitha Mickelson-Cross (Steve), Rebecca McKinney, Shannon McKinney, Kelsey McKinney, Aaron McKinney, William “Mac” and Shyla Stone; and one great-grandchild, Chloe Mickelson. Memorial service will be at Harry W. Moore Funeral Care at 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 23. Interment will be with her husband at Old Friendship Cemetery in Lynnville, IN. Please visit her online guest book at www.harrywmoore.com
Tabitha A Mickelson Cross says
Grandma was a unique lady in so many ways. Knowing her enriched my life. She enjoyed watching the squirrels and birds outside her window. She enjoyed a good meal, good company, and good weather. She was an intelligent lady and, in her younger years, she enjoyed deep conversation and classical music. She had a rough life due to several circumstances, but in all that she experienced in life, I know she loved her family. A few days before she passed, we talked about the weather and Easter. I also told her that I loved her. May she rest in peace and may her family and friends know that she has gone on to a better place.
Lisa Wright Rulli says
I am very sorry for your loss. Very nice Obituary. Sounds like she had an interesting life.
Nathan Amber Hiscock says
“Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD delivers him out of them all.” Psalm 34:19
Praying for you all as you mourn the loss and celebrate her homegoing. May God grant peace that passes all understanding, and may your love for each other grow ever more.
Mark Lynda Moss says
Patricia,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. May you be comforted by the God of all comfort. Isaiah 66:13
In Christ,
Mark & Lynda Moss
Kathy says
Patricia and family,
We too mourn with you in your loss. We will be praying for you as you walk this journey of sorrow.
The Spencers
Sue Bradley says
Patricia & family,
I am sad for your loss & ask God to especially comfort you in the days & weeks ahead.
Sheryl Terzini says
To Bonnie and your family. May you find comfort in each other and in your memories.
“Do not stand at my grave and weep
I am not there; I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow,
I am the diamond glints on snow,
I am the sun on ripened grain,
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning’s hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry,
I am not there; I did not die.”
Owen McKinney says
God bless all of you for your compassionate and kind words to the children of William and Ardith McKinney.