November 12, 1942 ~ February 28, 2026 (age 83)
Tony Lane McKinney, most recently of Auburn, Alabama, passed away on February 28, 2026. He was 83.
Although Tony never wanted to be the center of attention, he left a lasting impact on his family and friends who knew him best. He was a man of patience, integrity, kindness, and generosity. He had a sharp sense of humor.
Tony was born in Lafayette, AL, on November 12, 1942, to Katheryn Lane McKinney and Will Hal McKinney. He married his high school sweetheart, Jeanne Ray, in 1962 and went on to graduate from Auburn University with a Bachelor of Science in Pre-Dentistry in 1965. His relationship with and love for Auburn became one of the most influential and defining characteristics of the rest of his life.
Tony attended dental school at the University of Alabama in Birmingham. Afterwards, he served in the United States Navy at Parris Island, South Carolina.
Upon discharge in 1971, Tony moved his family to start what would become a 45-year career in dentistry in Talladega. At the time, he could never have imagined the extent to which his relationships with his patients and friends would come to be considered one of his greatest achievements. His involvement in the community extended to his membership at the First United Methodist Church of Talladega, his service through Kiwanis International, and his work with the Federal Correctional Institute of Alabama as well as the Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind.
Tony was preceded in death by his parents and his cherished son and friend, Matthew Lane McKinney. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Jeanne Ray McKinney; daughters Kimberly (Kim) McKinney Reid (Paul) of Tuscaloosa, AL and Katheryn (Katy) McKinney Crane (Eric) of Roswell, GA; grandchildren Katheryn Donati Dagostin (Garrett), Donovan Campbell Crane, Paul Edward Reid, III, and Stella Ray Crane; and one great-grandchild, Matthew Sloan Dagostin. He is also survived by his dear sister, Kathy McKinney Moore.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 pm on Sunday, March 29 at Selwood Farms in Alpine, AL.
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