George Dale McKinzie was born on March 31, 1933, to Samantha (Shepard) McKinzie and Everett McKinzie in Fisk, Missouri. He passed away on February 13, 2026, in Mountain View, Missouri.
On his mother’s knee, he learned the thrill of reading and gained a curiosity about the world ahead. As Valedictorian of his graduating class, he knew he was college-bound, but first, marriage to his love, Betty Steed, and the United States Air Force. In 1953, at Ft. Sam Houston, San Antonio, Texas, he thrived as a member of the Special Forces following the Korean War, which led him to duties in Japan, away from his young family. This became a chapter of which he was forever proud.
After his service ended, he graduated from Southeast Missouri State. Then, continued with his Master’s Degree at Drury College. Retiring with 32 years as High School Principal, he was proof that if you love your job, you’ll never work a day in your life.
During those years, he and Betty had four children, Cathy, John, Scott, and Lynn, who brought a rich and busy life. He was always kind, patient, and firm in his work and with his family. He guided with hard work and independence, which served him well; he expected that of everyone. After retiring, he enjoyed many years of home, travel, and family.
George leaves behind his wife Betty; his immediate family, Cathy and Jon Smith, John and Cathy McKinzie, Scott and Tena McKinzie, and Lynn and Jackie McKinzie; grandchildren, Ian and Stuart Smith, Morgan (McKinzie) Renegar, Christopher, Allan, Zachary, Lauren, Emily McKinzie, and Erin (McKinzie) McMurrin; great-grandchildren, Stuart, Max, Trevor Smith, Jayden McKinzie, Rhett and Sophia Renegar, Maverick, Hudson, and Miles McKinzie; twice great-grandchild, Eleanor Smith; his sweet sister, Cokie Smart; and many much loved nieces and nephews.
Preceding him in death are his parents, brothers, Winsel, Bud, Paul, and sister, Wanda.
We will forever miss him, the coffee hours, his mandolin, Chet Atkins, and his joy of storytelling. Peace be with him, he was a gentle man.
