Walter Warren McKee Jr.

Walter Warren McKee Jr., age 89, of Coupland, entered Heaven’s gates and was reunited with his wife, Elaine, on Thursday, Nov. 17, 2022.

Walter was born on April 3, 1933, in Dallas to his parents, Walter Warren McKee Sr. and Maidie Minyard McKee. Walter graduated from Belton High School in 1950, where he made lifelong friendships with many. He went on to attend college and obtain his bachelor’s degree from the University of Mary Hardin Baylor and then later completed his master’s degree from North Texas State University, College of Music, of which he was so proud.

Walter married Elaine, the love of his life, in 1965. They were the epitome of “and the two shall become one.” They were blessed with two daughters, Kimberley and Gayla, who always knew they had their father’s deepest love and adoration. And in the last few years of his life, he became a proud grandpa to Landon, Logan, Nevaeh and Kamilah.

Another of Walter’s great loves was music. He learned to play piano as a young boy and shared his gift of music with everyone he knew. From a young adult, Walter played the piano in almost every church he became a member of. And occasionally, he would skip across the stage and play the organ, which sounded more like an orchestra when he played.

But, Walter’s greatest love was his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and he served faithfully at every church he belonged to from the time he was a boy up until he was no longer physically able. He was ordained as a deacon, served as pianist and music leader, and taught Sunday School.

Walter’s career as a teacher spanned from the late 1950s until the early 2000s as he retired from full-time teaching but continued to serve as a substitute teacher. He taught in Dalhart, Mercedes, Wink, Grandfalls and Pecos. Over those years, he taught choir and music mostly, but also reading and other subjects at times. He touched the lives of so many children with his love and knowledge of music. He was an extremely gifted teacher.

Walter was preceded in death by his parents, “Warren” and Maidie McKee; his wife, Elaine; his grandson, Logan; and sisters-in-law, Cynthia McKee and Lina Whitaker. He is survived by his daughters, Kimberley McKee, and Gayla Turner and husband, Jonathan; grandchildren, Landon Turner, Nevaeh Turner and Kamilah Turner; his brothers, Donald McKee, and Alex McKee and wife, Glenda; brothers-in-law, Jerry Whitaker and Roger Whitaker; and many other beloved family members and dear friends.  

Family and friends gathered for visitation from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 25, at Providence-Jones Family Funeral Home in Elgin. A celebration of Walter’s Life was held at 11 a.m., on Saturday, Nov. 26, at First Baptist Church Elgin, with Pastor Jason Huddleston presiding. He will be laid to rest beside his wife, Elaine, at Highland Memorial Park in Weslaco. Arrangements entrusted to Providence-Jones Family Funeral Home in Elgin.

In lieu of flowers, please make a memorial contribution to First Baptist Church Elgin or a charity of your choice.

“His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things. I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’”
—Matthew 25:23