07/01/2026
Oklahoma DeMolay is deeply saddened by the loss of Dad Jimmy McKinney, a DeMolay alumnus, advisor, mentor, friend, and brother.
Dad McKinney poured his heart and dedication into both DeMolay and Freemasonry. One of DeMolay’s strongest supporters, he devoted decades of service to Oklahoma DeMolay. He was an Honorary Member of the International Supreme Council and served in numerous leadership roles throughout the years, including Chapter Advisor, District Governor, Director of Workshop, and Director of Ritual for the State of Oklahoma.
His service was recognized through many of DeMolay’s highest honors, including the Guild of the Leather Apron (Advisor of the Year), the Degree of Chevalier, the Cross of Honor, and the Legion of Honor. He was also instrumental in many of DeMolay’s most impactful programs, including the Frank Marshall Championship Tournament and the Great Plains DeMolay Leadership Conference.
In Freemasonry, Jim was a Past Master of Composite Lodge in Shawnee, Oklahoma, and Del City Lodge in Del City, Oklahoma. He was also a charter member of Guildhall Lodge in Oklahoma City. Jim dedicated countless hours to degree work within the Guthrie Scottish Rite and was coroneted a 33° Scottish Rite Mason in 2011.
Jim was affectionately known as “Griz.” While many assumed the nickname came from his resemblance to a grizzly bear, those who knew him best understood that he was truly a teddy bear at heart. He was deeply passionate about serving others and mentoring generations of young men, leaving a lasting impact on countless lives.
Funeral Service
Thursday, July 2, 2026
10:00 AM
John M. Ireland & Son Funeral Home and Chapel
120 S. Broadway Ave.
Moore, OK 73160
The family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made in Jim’s memory to the Oklahoma DeMolay Association:
Oklahoma DeMolay Association
125 SW 132nd Street
Oklahoma City, OK 73170
Rest in peace, Dad McKinney. Your legacy of service, leadership, and brotherhood will never be forgotten. You will be deeply missed.
As one final remembrance, Dad McKinney provided the narration for one of Great Plains DLC's most memorable videos. We invite you to revisit it here: https://youtu.be/b7WG6Ylrea8?is=4nnpw_LzZnxSZQpI