Lenora McKinney

Lenora’s Story

August 5, 1947 – May 27, 2025

Lenora McKinney, a beloved wife, mother, sister, aunt, mentor, and friend,
peacefully transitioned into eternal rest on May 27, 2025, surrounded by the
love and devotion of her family. Her radiant smile, warm heart, and
unwavering dedication to others left an indelible mark on everyone she

encountered.

Born on August 5, 1947, in Seale, Alabama, Lenora was the cherished daughter
of the late Joseph Whiting, Sr. of Montgomery, Alabama, and Josephine
(Howard) Whiting of Seale, Alabama. She spent her early years in a close-knit
Southern community and graduated with honors from Spencer High School in

Columbus, Georgia, in 1966.

Shortly after graduation, Lenora embarked on a new chapter of her life by
relocating to Paterson, New Jersey, where she lived with her beloved Aunt
Mary Ella Alexander. It was there that fate introduced her to the love of her
life, Norman McKinney, through his brother Arthur McKinney. Their
connection was instant and enduring—they married in May 1968 and
welcomed their only child, Reginald “Reggie” McKinney, that same year.
Lenora built a remarkable career spanning both healthcare and corporate
America. She held long-term positions at IBM and Ernst & Young, earning the
admiration of colleagues through her intelligence, grace, and diligence. Ever
committed to personal growth and education, Lenora returned to school later in
life and proudly completed her degree in Business Administration from William
Paterson University—graduating with honors while balancing a full- time job and

family life.

Her 57-year marriage to Norman was a beautiful testament to enduring love
and partnership. They were inseparable, sharing laughter, road trips, and warm
gatherings with family and friends. Their home was a hub of joy, where Lenora’s
famous sweet potato pies, deviled eggs, Thanksgiving dressing, and Sunday
chicken piccata which was her sons favorite and brought everyone together

around the table in New Jersey.

Lenora had a gift for making others feel seen, loved, and supported. She
delighted in playing Bid Whist, planning family road trips to the South, and
mentoring younger relatives with kindness and wisdom. Her nurturing spirit
extended beyond her immediate family—she was a second mother to many.
In her spiritual life, Lenora was a devoted member of The Park Church of
Charlotte, where she served joyfully in the Greeters Ministry. Her warm
embrace and signature smile welcomed countless congregants and visitors
into the house of God, embodying His love with every greeting.
Her presence truly was contagious—her joy, unforgettable.
She was preceded in death by her loving parents, Joseph and Josephine

Whiting.

Lenora’s legacy lives on in the hearts of her devoted husband of 57 years,
Norman McKinney, and her beloved son Reginald (Reggie) Lamar

McKinney, and his wife Karen McKinney.

She is also lovingly remembered by her siblings: Helen Davis, Joseph
Whiting Jr. and his wife Chauncey, Gregory Whiting, and Valisa Whiting;
sisters-in-law Laura Parker, Annie Stover, Jeanie McKinney, Alice
Pendergrass, Yvonne Hinson; brother-in-law Dr. Herbert McKinney; and a
host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends who adored

her deeply.

Though Lenora has departed from this earthly life, her love, light, and
legacy will live on in the countless lives she touched. She was a woman of
faith, strength, and boundless compassion—and we are all better for having

known her.

“Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.” –

Matthew 25:23

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