Marvin Lee McKinney, age 82, of Maryville, Missouri, passed away peacefully on January 30, 2025. Born on February 4, 1942, to Wilbur and Esther (Archer) McKinney of Maitland, Missouri, Marvin lived a life marked by an incredible work ethic, deep love for his family, and a profound sense of kindness and generosity.

A proud member of the Maitland community, Marvin graduated from Maitland High School and immediately began a life of hard work and service. From a young age, he helped tend to livestock, worked in the fields, and learned the value of diligence and perseverance. As a young man, he joined his father in harvesting bluegrass in Minnesota, gaining invaluable life lessons and a sense of pride in all he did.

After high school, Marvin worked at Hall's Lumber in Maitland before answering the call to serve his country in 1964. He proudly served a tour of duty in Vietnam, where his courage and commitment to his fellow soldiers left a lasting impact. Upon returning home, Marvin worked for Wonder Bread, Bower's Market, and Energizer Battery, where he spent over two decades before retiring.

Marvin's life was defined not just by his hard work, but by his devotion to his family. On December 24, 1964, he married the love of his life, Carol Ann Bower, with whom he shared a beautiful partnership for over 60 years. Together, they raised two children, Mark and Keri, and built a life centered around love, laughter, and an enduring commitment to one another.

Marvin had a wide range of passions that he pursued with enthusiasm. Whether it was boating, fishing, horseback riding, or tending to his garden, he found joy in working with the land and spending time outdoors.  He also loved collecting and restoring knives and making jewelry to then give away to others.  He and Carol purchased a farm north of Maryville over 30 years ago, where they raised cattle and horses. It became their little slice of heaven—a place where they could host family and friends, ride horses, go ATV'ing, hunt, fish, or simply relax and take in the beauty of the countryside.

Marvin's greatest legacy, however, was his heart—a heart that was as big as it was kind. He deeply loved his family and friends, and he was always there for anyone in need. He would often close a conversation with, "Is there anything I can do for you?" because he was happiest when helping others. His generosity knew no bounds, and he took great pride in sharing the bounty of his garden, filling his truck with the fruits of his labor to share with those he loved.

He leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and an example of how to live a life of service to others.  He is survived by his beloved wife Carol, son Mark, his wife & daughters Jennifer, Lauren and Hannah, daughter Keri, her partner & children, Jeremy, Dylan, Jaidyn & Ashtyn, sisters-in-law Sharron Patton and Rhonda McKinney as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Marvin was preceded in death by his parents Wilbur (Pete) & Esther and siblings, Ralph, Larry, Erma (Damewood) and brother-in-law Donald (Skip) Damewood.  He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A celebration of Marvin's life will be held on 2pm Monday, February 3rd at Price Funeral Home. Burial Maitland Cemetery, Maitland, Missouri. The family will receive friends from 5:00pm to 7:00pm Sunday, February 2nd at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Alzheimer's & Dementia Association in honor of Marvin's lifelong commitment to helping others.

Rest in peace, Marvin. Your work here is done, but your love and kindness will live on in the hearts of those you touched.