Robert McKee

(From Ozark Funeral Home)

Robert Franklin McKee, 70, of Barling, Arkansas, formerly of Southwest City, Missouri, passed away on September 1, 2026.

Robert was born November 28, 1955, in Missouri to Drury Franklin “Frank” McKee and Wilma Louise McKee. He graduated from high school in 1973 and spent much of his working life with Hudson Foods, where he worked as a diesel mechanic and later served for many years as shop manager. After leaving Hudson Foods, he continued his career working in parts sales.

While living in Southwest City, Robert was generous with his time and served his community in many ways. He spent many years as a volunteer firefighter with the Southwest City Fire Department and gave countless summer hours as a volunteer umpire for the Southwest City summer ball program.

To those who knew him, Robert was a kind, mild-mannered, patient, and loving man. But perhaps his greatest legacy is the kind of father he was.

He was a dad who showed up.

He was there for spelling bees, band events, countless practices and games, and all of the milestones and ordinary moments that make up a childhood. From the sidelines and bleachers, he proudly watched his children compete in their sports through the years, including following Andy’s basketball career into college. Later, he continued that same tradition with his grandchildren, showing up for their basketball, football, baseball, and other activities and for the things that mattered to them. Even as life changed and his family changed, his love and involvement in his children’s lives did not. He was supportive, dependable, and endlessly proud of his children, and he made sure they knew it.

Robert enjoyed staying active and had a lifelong love of sports and the outdoors. He was an avid golfer, bowled in leagues, played co-ed slow-pitch softball, and spent many days fishing. He was also a devoted sports fan who loved cheering on the Arkansas Razorbacks and Kansas City Chiefs and following both the St. Louis Cardinals and Kansas City Royals.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Drury Franklin “Frank” McKee and Wilma Louise McKee; his great-grandson, Riley Sage; and his step-grandson, Jace McRorey.

He is survived by his wife, Brucinda; his children, Amy (Eric) Lance, Darla Burgener, Robby (Carla) McKee, and Andy (Maddy) McKee; his stepdaughters, Brandi (Jake) McRorey and Ashley (Anthony) Fry; eight grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and three step-grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings, Mary (Larry) Shields and Jimmy (Kathy) McKee.

Robert’s family will remember many things about him, but above all, they will remember how deeply he loved them. He was the kind of father whose presence could be counted on, whose pride in his children was never in question, and whose kindness and patience left a lasting impression on the people he loved.

For his children, there was never any question: he was simply the best dad.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at the Full Gospel Ruth Life Center in Southwest City, Missouri. Family and friends are invited to gather together to remember and celebrate Robert’s life. Daddy wouldn't have wanted a formal gathering, please feel free to wear your favorite sports attire.