Rita Jean McKinney

Rita Jean Royer McKinney, 69, of Gulfport, MS passed away on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at Singing River Hospital Gulfport.

She was born on July 5, 1956, to Darwin H. Royer and Gertrude Thralls Royer. She worked at Sarah Scott Middle School for many years and was an amazing caregiver. She loved her grandkids and all Elvis memorabilia.

Rita was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Mark McKinney; siblings, Gary Royer, Debra Royer and Larry Dean Royer and her dog, Gabbie.

Survivors include her children; Melynda McKinney (Sheryll Ward), and Miranda Rush (Nick); her grandchildren, Alexandrea McKinney (Alex), Nickolas Rush and Sierra McKinney; and soon to be great grandchild, Maverick Jean McKinney; and siblings, James Royer and Kenny Royer.

A memorial service will be held at the Jackson Street Weslyn Church in Brazil, Indiana on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at 4:00 p.m.

Bradford O’Keefe Funeral Home, O’Neal Road, Gulfport, is honored to serve the family of Rita Jean McKinney.