Michael James McKinney

Posted on March 11, 2020

Michael James McKinney, 73, was born on Jan. 21, 1947, in Wichita Falls, Texas. He passed away in Feb. 18, 2020, at his home on Amelia Island.

Mike was a veteran of the Vietnam war, serving as a Navy pilot. He graduated with honors from Baylor University, received his MBA from the University of North Florida and became a CPA.

Mike managed the Tallahassee Neurological Clinic before co-founding askSam Systems, a software company located in Perry, which was one of the first internet providers in the area.

He was active in his community, serving as Rotary Club president, with Habitat for Humanity, the Tallahassee Economics Club and the Florida Rural Water Association.

After the Storm of the Century, Mike, along with many others, worked to provide water and sewer at the Taylor County beaches. He later served as a state board member and then president of the Florida Rural Water Association.

Mike enjoyed traveling and photography, his favorite destination being Turkey and its archaeology. Another favorite subject was photographing the sunrises sunsets and marsh wildlife around Dark Island

and Lindsey Island.

Mike is survived by: his wife, Lee Lindsey McKinney; two brothers, Melvin H. McKinney and Stephen B. McKinney; and his friend and caregiver, Curt Howell.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the Jane and Bill Warner Center for Caring, 4266 Sunbeam Road, Jacksonville, FL 32257.