Obituary of Mark Anthony McKinney

Mark  Anthony "Tony" McKinney, 54 of  Bedford, won his battle with melanoma and entered the gates of Heaven on Friday, July 7, 2017.  He was born on Wednesday, July 18, 1962 in Lynchburg, a son of the late James G. McKinney and Margaret L. McKinney.  He was also preceded in death by his brothers, Ray Tyree, Ron Tyree & his sister, Peggy Croft.

Tony began his healthcare career as a volunteer with Bedford Rescue Squad as an EMT.  Later in 1989, he obtained an Associate of Science in Emergency Health Sciences.  After working as a career medic with Roanoke City, Tony attended Jefferson College and obtained an Associate of Science in Nursing.  He furthered his education with a Bachelor of Science in Health Organizational Management in 2005 and finally a Masters of Business Administration from Aspen University in 2007.
  
Tony was a lifelong learner, which prompted him to share his knowledge with others.  He had a genuine passion for mentoring, whether that be MEDIC or RN.  Tony began his nursing career in the Community Hospital of the Roanoke Valley’s Emergency Department.  Caring for the acutely ill and injured came naturally.  He held a special place in his heart for pediatrics and requested the PEDS assignment over any other.  Advancing to his first leadership position as a Clinical Team Leader, Tony facilitated patient flow at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital’s Emergency Department.  While employed with Carilion, he advanced from Unit Manager to the position of Director of Roanoke Memorial and Community Hospital’s Emergency Services.  After becoming certified in EPIC ASAP, Tony sparked an interest in clinical informatics.  An opportunity for a Director of Clinical Informatics presented and Tony answered the call, to begin a career at Centra Health.  One of many accomplishments, he was most proud to champion the build and implementation of a new electronic medical record. 
 
Tony was known as a hard worker.  In addition to his career dedication, he also continued to serve the community.  Even during his battle with melanoma, Tony volunteered at Liberty High School as the Varsity Boys Assistant Basketball coach.

We look at accolades in life through accomplishments, but Tony held strongly to the belief that his greatest achievement was being a father to his son, Corbett.  
 
He is survived by his wife, Sharon Tibbs McKinney;  his son, Corbett Atwell McKinney; his brother, Jeff McKinney & wife, Stephanie of Roanoke; mother-in-law, Patricia D. Tibbs of Bedford;  brother-in-law, E. W. Tibbs & wife, Angela of Bedford; sister-in-law, Debbie Tyree; nieces & nephews, Kirsten McKinney, Jake McKinney, Emma Tibbs Gerstemeier & her husband, Sam, McKenzie Lynn Tibbs, Jeremy & Chris Tyree and Vicky Trent.  

Our family is beyond thankful for the love shown during Tony's illness.  There are no words to express our appreciation to the medical teams at Centra Health.  We received world class care from the OR, MICU, ORTHO and Pulmonary units.  Centra Transport and the Alan B. Pearson Cancer Center staff were so kind and compassionate during every trip from the hospital to radiation.  Although the road was long, we want to recognize "Tony's Team" for every caring touch and hours of dedication:  E. W. Tibbs, Patti & Tommy Bridges, Melissa & Ken Harper, Crystal Bolton, David & Teresa Norcross, and Steve Stadtherr.  The Centra clinical informatic team was supportive and their kindness did not go unnoticed.   

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to Liberty High School Minuteman Club for the Boys Basketball Team, 412 Bedford Avenue, Bedford, VA 24523 or the Centra Foundation, specifically for the Rosemary and George Dawson Patient Inn, 1920 Atherholt Road, Lynchburg, VA 24501.  Kathryn.pumphrey@centrahealth.com 
  

The family will receive friends beginning at 10 AM on Monday, July 10, 2017 at Updike Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Bedford and a funeral service will follow at 12 noon in the chapel with Rev. Mark Giganti officiating.    Friends and family are invited to the home of E.W. and Angela Tibbs following the service for food & fellowship.

Arrangements are being handled by Updike Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Bedford.