Judith "Judy" McKinney

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Judith "Judy" McKinney, age 74, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt who left us suddenly on December 19, 2025. Born August 2, 1951, in Trenton, New Jersey, to Giuseppe and Olympia Forgione, Judy built a life in Port Clinton, Ohio, defined by boundless love for her family and tireless service to her community.

Judy leaves behind her devoted husband of 41 years, James Erwin McKinney, with whom she shared a life filled with love and partnership. She was the cherished mother of three daughters: Shannon Roberts (Sean) of Sandusky, Ohio; Nelly Kelley (Mike) of Broadview Heights, Ohio; and Emily McKinney Snell (Kevin) of Alexandria, Virginia. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Winnie, Isabel, and Benjamin Jude Roberts—whom she had the extraordinary privilege of delivering herself—as well as Emma, Grace, and Alex Kelley. She is survived by her three brothers, Joseph (Diane), Martin (Rose), and Salvatore (Monica, deceased) and their families, including nieces and nephews located in Texas, New Jersey, and New Hampshire, all of whom she adored. She is also survived by her sister-in-law Gail McKinney Shannon (Doug), whom she held dear.

Family was the center of Judy's life, and her love for them was fierce and all-encompassing. Tough as nails yet endlessly caring, Judy was the heart, soul, and anchor of her family, nourishing all with her exceptional cooking, quiet comforts, and countless acts of kindness.

Judy extended this same devotion to everyone who entered her orbit, offering both strength and comfort in equal measure. A pillar of the Port Clinton community, Judy served with distinction as Exalted Ruler of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks Lodge #1718, holding this honored position three times—a testament to the respect and admiration she earned. Her passionate work with the Elks included supporting families in need of food and promoting educational opportunities for children. She was especially dedicated to supporting those with cerebral palsy and our nation's veterans, causes that spoke to her compassionate heart.

Though her passing was unexpected, her legacy lives in all who knew her—and most deeply in her family, who will forever strive to carry forward her strength.

A memorial will be held in Judy's honor at the Port Clinton Elks Lodge on January 10, 2026, at 3:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be mailed to the Port Clinton Elks Lodge #1718 at 231 Buckeye Blvd, Port Clinton, OH 43452, payable to the Stag-er-oo, a 501(c)(3) organization, to continue Judy's passionate support of her community.