By Edgar on February 25th, 2015

James E. McKay Jr., 81, of Locust Bayou, Ark. passed away Thursday, Feb. 19, 2015. He was born Nov. 4, 1933 to James E., Sr. and Alta Furr McKay. He was a forester for International Paper Company for 34 years. He was a beloved member of the Locust Bayou Church of Christ. Jim was one of those rare people who was universally liked. He always had a smile on his face and was an encouragement to everyone. Kind-hearted, hospitable and generous, Jim’s door was always open to anyone and he was ever ready to help people however he could. He deeply loved his family and found great pleasure in spending time with them whether it was on family vacations, at the deer camp or relaxing on the front porch. In the lives of his loved ones, “Papa” was a steady, positive presence. A devoted member of the Church of Christ, Jim was the primary song leader for many years. As such, he left a lasting impression on those who he led in worship. Doubtless many of his Christian family members will always remember the sound of his voice when they hear certain hymns. When he was able, Jim always had a vegetable garden. He would sow seed and reap a bountiful harvest that he shared with those around him. Likewise, Jim sowed seeds in his life of generosity, hard word and godliness. He reaped in life the admiration and love of his family and friends, who can now be confident that he continues to reap abundantly in his eternal home. An adored brother, father, grandfather and friends, Jim’s wisdom, kindness, gentleness and commitment to his Creator leaves a lasting legacy and a wealth of good memories. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Eleanor Jackson McKay and sister, Reba McKay Hendon. He is survived by his daughters, Lori Bussell and husband, Eric, Melissa Beaver and husband, Steve and Julie Cole and husband, Donnie; brother, Clark McKay; sister, Janice Lum and Judith Miller; grandsons, Tyler Bussell, Hayden Bussell, Evan Beaver and Jackson Cole; granddaughters, Hanna Cole and Clair Beaver; brother-in-law; sister-in-law; nieces, Jill Gatlin, Suzanne Lum, Lisa Ramierez, Sheila Harris, Vicki McKay, Mary Beth Crawford, Elizabeth Strickland, Sarah Bounds and Anita Rowe; nephews, Buddy McKay and Jason Hendon; several great nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of close friends. Funeral services for Mr. McKay were Feb. 22 at Locust Bayou Church of Christ with burial in Lakeside Cemetery. To sign the online guest register, visit www.proctorfuneralhome.com