Mr. Odell ("PaPa") McKinnis, Sr.

ODELL MCKINNIS, SR. was born September 15, 1938 in Gunnison Township, Mississippi to Cortez McKinnis, Sr. and Willie May Qohnson) McKinnis. Both parents, five siblings, Benjamin, Elnora, Willie, Joe, and J.C.; and one sister-in-law, Sina Mae, preceded him in death.

Odell was educated by Mississippi's public school system. 

Odell accepted Christ as his savior at an early age. 

On August 4, 1962, Odell married his life long partner and wife of 45 years, Rena McKinnis, who preceded him in death. From their union, three children were born, Jennifer, Odell Jr., and Donna (preceded him in death). 

After moving to St. Louis, Odell became employed by Wonder Bread where he retired from after 45 years. After retirement, he enjoyed relaxing outside, watching sports on television (he loved the Cardinals baseball team and hated the Dallas Cowboys) and TD Jakes on Sunday morning. 

On August 24, 2020 at 4:45 a.m., God called Odell home. His memories will be cherished by: his daughter, Jennifer McKinnis and son, Odell McKinnis, Jr.; three grandchildren, Priya McKinnis, Le'Shasta McKinnis (Eila), and Odell McKinnis III; four great grandchildren, Pryce McKinnis, Promyss McPhearson, Marlee McKinnis and Pure Wilson; sister, Mattie Moore (Freddie) of Cleveland, MS and brother, Cortez McKinnis, Jr. Qean) of Junction City, Kansas; brother-in-law, Steve Barnes (Doris) and four sisters-in-law, Yvette Allen (George), Tammy Watkins Qames), Angela Bills Qames) and Kimberly Barnes (Greg) all of Memphis, TN and a host of nieces, nephews, and many friends. 

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