Columbus, OH — James “Jim” M. McKee, 79, of Saline, Mich., died July 31, 2024.
He was born in Williamson, W.Va., to parents AJ and Emma on May 5, 1945. He graduated from Belfry High School in Belfry, Ky., where he achieved an all-star title for several sports.
In 1965, Mr. McKee moved to Michigan for work. It was soon after he met his beloved wife, Ramona. The couple married in 1969 and together they raised six children. He was able to turn his passion into a successful career as a horse trainer/owner in the Standardbred industry. He took such great pride in how well he was able to take care of the horses and clients he worked with.
Mr. McKee loved to keep busy and sharp. He loved to work with his hands and was quite skilled in carpentry and taking a crack at building anything and everything. He also enjoyed bowling and spider solitaire. Above all, he loved his family and took every chance to spend time with them. He will always be remembered as a man that was kind, loving, and always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone. He was a great man, he was loved by many and will be deeply missed.
Mr. McKee is survived by his adored wife of 55 years, Ramona; children, Sherry C. Kennedy, Terri Poore, Chris (Tonya), Donna (Chuck) Metcalf, Johnny (Melissa) Ison, and James Ison II; grandchildren, Brittany, Steven Poore, Christopher, Taylor, Jamie Swords, Michael Gilson, Heidi Gilson, John Grilley Ison, and James III; and sister, Marcy McKee-Simonson. He also will be missed by his dear pups, Max and Hunter; and many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
Following his wishes, he has generously donated his body to the University of Michigan Anatomical Donation Program. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.