Obituary of Willis Perley McKinley

It is with great sadness the family announces the passing of Perley Willis McKinley, husband of the late Doreen (Nowlan) of 61 years, which occurred on Monday, October 4, 2021, at Bobby’s Hospice. Born on November 1, 1937, in McKinleyville, NB, he was a son of the late Perley and Irene (Clark) McKinley.

Willis enjoyed working as a Mason with the Irving Pulp and Paper Mill until retirement in 1994. He and Doreen travelled to over 30 countries and enjoyed spending time at their cottage in McKinleyville. Willis enjoyed four-wheeling to his camp, canoeing the Cains River, gardening, winemaking, caring for his bees and spending time in the Miramichi.  Enjoying these activities with his grand-children and great grandchild. 

He is survived by his daughter, Karen Tippett (David Dickie); grandchildren: Katie Tippett, Kody Tippett, Kalie Hill (Ben), Alexander, Lauren, and Julia McKinley; great-grandson, Jaxsyn Tippett; daughter-in-law, Leslie McKinley; brothers: Alvin, Donald, Hubert, Beverley, Sterling, Kenneth, Bob; and sisters Ruby and Sharon.

Besides his wife and parents, he was predeceased by his son, Harvey; grandson, Kyle Tippett; son-in-law, Dana Tippett; and brother’s Paul and John, sisters Roberta and Aubrey. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John (634-7424). In keeping with Willis’s wishes, there will be no funeral services. A private graveside service will take place in Mount Hope Cemetery at a later date. For those who wish, remembrances to Bobby’s Hospice would be appreciated by the family. Please place online condolences and remembrance at www.BrenansFH.com.