James Joseph Dennis McKiniry, US Army Colonel retired, passed away at home May 21, 2021, in Tavares, FL. Born February 24, 1943, he was the beloved child of the late James Joseph McKiniry and Catherine Olivia (Walsh) McKiniry, both Freeland, PA, natives.

A graduate of Montclair State College, NJ, Colonel McKiniry went on to serve as an officer in Vietnam, where he received a Bronze Star for his heroic achievement as a firing battery commander and battalion fires director. He was subsequently inducted into the Army Artillery Hall of Fame.

Colonel McKiniry’s celebrated military career later found him as acting staff sergeant in a critical nuclear unit, and as chief of staff, Civil Affairs Command. He proudly served in Desert Shield, Desert Storm and during operations Provide Comfort, Provide Liberty, Provide Relief, Provide Justice, and Provide Hope.

A graduate of the US Army War College, Colonel McKiniry held many high-level positions both during active duty and with the US Army Reserve, including service with the US European Command, NATO, and US Special Operations Command.

Colonel McKiniry is the recipient of more than two dozen awards and commendations, including several Meritorious Service Medals, and Defense and Army Commendation and Achievement Medals.

During his second career, James was regional office chief of staff for the US Department of Veterans Affairs, where he oversaw a team of 400-plus personnel.

James is survived by his wife of 52 Years, Elizabeth Ann (Young) McKiniry; his seven children, Lenore Beers, Lorraine McKiniry, Shannon McKiniry, Erin Hans, James J. McKiniry III, Tara McKiniry, and Christopher McKiniry; 11 grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

A funeral service and interment will take place at Arlington National Cemetery in the coming weeks.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The American Legion: www.legion.org/charities. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.storkefuneralhome.com.