John Elam McKinley III Obituary
The passing of John Elam McKinley III in Faison, North Carolina occurred on June 7, 2026. John Elam, born on August 5, 1943 in Decatur, Georgia, is remembered by those who knew him. Family and friends are welcome to leave their condolences on this memorial page and share them with the family.
John Elam touched many lives and will be remembered fondly for the moments shared and the memories created. Family, friends, and colleagues extend their love and support during this time. While John Elam’s presence will be missed, the influence he had on others will remain. Those who knew him will carry forward memories that reflect his character and spirit.
He is survived by: his wife Sue Williamson McKinley; his daughters, Leigh Ann McKinley and Caroline McKinley Westphal; his son-in-law Hastings Westphal; and his grandchildren, Hayden and Reagan Westphal.
For those who cannot join us in person, the service will be streamed, In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the following: Emory University, Office of Gift Accounting, 1762 Clifton Road, Suite 2400, Atlanta, GA 30322. Please note the gift is to support Goizueta Alzheimer's Disease Research Center or GADRC and indicate the gift is in memory of John McKinley, III.
