Richard L. McKinley

Richard L. McKinley, 72, of Medway, passed away peacefully on February 13, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Gale and Virginia (Laws) McKinley. He is survived by his devoted wife of 51 years and high school sweetheart, Mary; his son, Andy (Mandi) McKinley, and their daughters, Allie, Emily, and Annie; his daughter, Betsy (Jose) Iraolagoitia, and their children, Christine Moore and Mateo Iraolagoitia; and his sister, Gail McKinley. He was cherished beyond measure in his favorite role of all — “Grandpa.”

Richard graduated from Vanderbilt University and later from the Air Force Institute of Technology, launching a distinguished career as a biomedical engineer. He dedicated 40 years of service to the Air Force Research Laboratory, where his work advanced science and supported those who serve our country. Even after retirement, he continued contributing through his work with Booz Allen Hamilton, remaining committed to the mission and the people he cared about.

Music was woven deeply into Richard’s life. He met Mary as a young man singing in the church choir, beginning a lifelong harmony together. He continued sharing his rich voice for many years with the choir at Westminster Presbyterian Church, where his faith and friendships flourished.

Richard never met a stranger. Friendly, social, and quick with a smile, he loved gathering with others and was known for his playful spirit and perfectly timed, delightfully punny jokes. He found joy in life’s simple pleasures: tending his garden, savoring a bowl of ice cream, flying small airplanes, building and piloting model planes, and watching aircraft overhead. He shared a special bond with his son through their love of fast cars and proudly showcased his classic 1963 Jaguar XKE at car shows, where it earned numerous awards.

He will be remembered for his steady kindness, quick wit, gentle intelligence, and deep devotion to his family. His legacy lives on in the songs he sang, the laughter he sparked, the stories he told, and the love he gave so freely.

Visitation will be held on Monday, February 16, 2026, at Trostel, Chapman, Dunbar & Fraley Funeral Home from 4-7 pm. A celebration of Richard’s life will be held on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at 12 noon at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 125 N Wilkinson St, Dayton, OH 45402. Burial to follow at Medway Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages acts of kindness or donations to Tecumseh Band Boosters in his honor. Expressions of sympathy may be made at trostelchapman.com.