James Donald McKenzie, 79, of Arnold, Mo, passed away peacefully on June 4, 2025 in Park Hills, Mo. He was born on Sept. 17, 1945 in Piggott, Ark to James and Juanita (Ward) McKenzie. He is survived by his wife of 57 years Nancy Jane (Gatewood) McKenzie and his 3 daughters- Vonda (Ron) Tefft, Ronda (Bryon) Voyles and Elizabeth (Lloyd) Odell. He is survived by 7 grandchildren and their spouses- Dakotah, Montannah, Savannah (Nic), Wyatt, Wesley (Emilee), Chloe and Patrick and 3 great grandchildren- Jewell, Boone, Beau with 2 on the way.
He was a proud veteran of the Air Force. After serving in the Vietnam War he joined the Air Nation Guard and served in the Gulf Wars retiring with 24 years of service.
He enjoyed spending as much time as possible with his grandchildren and their activities and ball games. He loved playing pranks and jokes on his grandchildren.
He was a long time member of the Arnold Church of Christ. He enjoyed going on mission trips with his fellow Christian brothers. He enjoyed muscle cars, fishing and playing softball.
Visitation will be held Sunday, June 15, 2025 from 4-8pm at Kutis Funeral Home (5255 Lemay Ferrry Road 63129). Service will be held on Monday, June 16, 2025 at 11am at the Arnold Church of Christ (2267 Scott Dr. 63010) with burial following at Jefferson Barrack Cemetery.