Jerold McKinnon

April 6, 1933 - January 2, 2020

Jerold Norman McKinnon, born in St. Louis, MO on April 6, 1933 beloved husband of 57 years to Virgie McKinnon. Loving father of Shawn (Kathy), Delia, and Joshua. Grandfather to Brett, Mike (Jill), Nick, Kate, Luke, Ian, and Stormie, and multiple great grandchildren. Jerold, or The Gray Dragon as he was nicknamed, joined the Navy when he was 17 years old, serving for 5 years, including the Korean War. Jerry learned how to play guitar at the young age of 5 years old and quickly learned music was his passion. Jerry began playing in local clubs before moving to the west coast in his 30’s to pursue his music career. Jerry signed with Wayside Records and made several #1 hits, including “Mr. Heartache”. In the 60’s Jerry performed his music at The Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee. Jerry returned to St. James, MO to raise his family and his beloved dog, Coney. Jerry is proceeded in death by his parents, Freddy A. and Delia G. McKinnon and brother Harold F. McKinnon.