Darrell E. McKay Sr., 80, of High Ridge died Nov. 11, 2023. Mr. McKay grew up and attended school in Sullivan, graduating in the class of 1961. He had several jobs while growing up including making donuts in a bakery and becoming an orderly at Sullivan Hospital which then encouraged his interest in Radiography. With this new interest, he furthered his education and began Radiologic Technology School. Never losing his love for learning, he continued his education at East Central Community College and graduated in 1973 with an associate degree. He then received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Missouri in Columbia in 1976 followed by achieving his master’s degree in 1980. He later obtained his PhD from Saint Louis University in 1988.
Mr. McKay’s career began at the Sullivan Hospital in 1969 until his transfer to the University of Missouri in 1974. He completed his career at Saint Louis Community College Forest Park in 2007 after 30 years of employment. At STLCC he oversaw the Radiologic Technology and the Life Sciences Department. He did a lot of work with his R.T. Societies. He held offices at the Missouri Society and American Society of Radiologic Technologists. He served in the leading credentialing organization, ARRT and was an officer in the International Society. Along with all of these positions came a lot of traveling, across the United States and around the world. He loved teaching his courses at school, Sunday School, CCW classes and gun safety. His greatest possessions were his books. Over the years, he served his church in many offices and duties. He loved life and enjoyed his time with his family and serving the Lord. Born Oct. 4, 1943, he was the son of the late George Edwin McKay and Virginia Elizabeth (Lechten) Marsh.
He is survived by his wife of 57 years: Janet McKay of High Ridge; two sons: Darrell Jr. of Washington and Richard of Arnold; two grandchildren: Karli McKay of Bristol, Va. and Ricky McKay of Arnold; three sisters-in-law: Linda Ridenhour of High Ridge, Mitzi Heady of Farmington and Juanita McKay of Sullivan; as well as many other family members and friends.
He was preceded in death by his stepfather: Ralph Marsh; a brother: Ron McKay; a stepsister: Chleo Ruwwe; his mother and father-in-law: Jack and Lillian Ridenhour; and one brother-in-law: Dean Heady Jr.
Visitation is scheduled from 10:30 a.m. until a memorial service at 11:30 a.m. Monday, Nov. 20, at New Hope Fellowship, 5919 Antire Road, in High Ridge. Graveside services will follow at 3 p.m. in Schmidt Cemetery in Sullivan. Memorials may be made to the New Hope Fellowship School. Arrangements are under the direction of Eaton Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Sullivan.