Richard Arlen McKinzie, 73, of Golconda, passed away with his beloved family by his side, Saturday, August 16, 2025, at SSM Health St. Louis University Hospital. He was born on October 28, 1951, in Centralia, the son of Roy and Edna (Cole) McKinzie. He married Pamela McNelly on September 29, 1972, in Centralia, and she survives him in Golconda.
Along with his devoted wife, Pamela McKinzie, survivors that will remember Richard’s love for his family include his daughter, Angie (Kevin) Schrader of Coulterville; grandchildren, Caitlyn McKinzie, Baylie McKinzie (Brett Phillips), Arianna McKinzie, Danielle McKinzie, Brody Schrader; great-grandchildren, Kaden and Emilea; brother, Michael McKinzie of Walnut Hill; sisters-in-law, Ethel (Sonny) Cummins of Patoka and Brenda Bryant of Centralia; and extended family members and friends.
Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Edna McKinzie; brother, David McKinzie; and son, Chad McKinzie.
Richard worked diligently as an operator for Continental Tire in Mt. Vernon, retiring after thirty dedicated years. He loved spending time outdoors, hunting, and taking his boat on the water for his next big catch. Richard always looked forward to amazing summer trips to Current River with family, enjoying the beauty of the area and taking advantage of time to truly relax and have fun. He was a man of faith, a Christian who emulated unconditional love for all. Richard and his wife Pamela were blessed throughout their lives with incredible friends, who were truly their family. His proudest accomplishment in life was being the most supportive, loving “PaPa” to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Richard was a wonderful husband to his soul mate, Pamela, a fierce, protective father, a gentle, loving, fun “PaPa”, a supportive brother, and a loyal friend.
Relatives and friends are welcome to a visitation from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Thursday, August 21, 2025, with Richard’s family, to offer words of comfort and share wonderful memories, at the Irvin Macz Funeral Home in Centralia. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Richard’s honor to the Donor’s Choice. Online condolences and memories of Richard may be shared with his family by visiting maczfuneralhomes.com and/or on the funeral home’s Facebook page. Irvin Macz Funeral Home is privileged to be assisting the family of Richard McKinzie with his services.
