Rodrick Lee McKay

Rodrick Lee McKay, affectionately known as "Lippy," graced this world with his vibrant spirit on October 4, 1934, in Memphis, Tennessee, and he departed from it on December 16, 2024, in Southaven, Mississippi, at his daughter's home after brief illness. An embodiment of joy, Lippy was the life of many a party, a legend in his own right, who was always known for lifting spirits and filling the air with laughter.

His love for life radiated brightly; he cherished every moment spent on the golf course, every wave lapping at the shores of Tampa Bay and Clearwater. He delighted not only in the thrill of the game but also in the precious time shared with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Each swing of the club and every summer day spent at the beach were not just hobbies; they were joyful celebrations of family bonds that he held dear to his heart. He always had his cap on backward and his earring showing.

Rodrick was truly the "Best Bopper" of the 50s in South Memphis. His feet would move with a rhythm that made dancing an irresistible joy. Known for his well-liked personality and his uncanny ability to notice everything around him, he had a unique way of making each person feel seen and appreciated. Those who knew him will remember him not just for his love of vodka with two olives, but for the countless memories he created —a storyteller whose voice echoed fondly in the hearts of family and friends alike.

The resilience borne from a remarkable 60-year marriage to his loving wife, Jane Christy McKay, is a testament to his commitment to family. He was resolute in looking out for his daughters, Leslie (Scott) Schaeffer, and Jill (Jeff) Newton, proving that sometimes, it isn't just about the years one lives but the impact one has on the lives of others.

Lippy's legacy lives on in his beloved grandchildren, Adam and Aaron Schaeffer, Marissa (Josh) Mathenia, and Taylor Newton, as well as his great-grandchildren, Maverick Schaeffer, Elijah Mathenia, Emory Mathenia, and Everly Mathenia, who will carry forward the stories and spirit of their grandfather, ensuring that his infectious laughter echoes through the generations.

He joins in eternal rest his parents, Albert Alton McKay and Nadien McKay, his cherished wife Jane, and his siblings, Shirley Jackson, Alton McKay, and Robert McKay—all cherished members of his story, who now watch over him with pride.

A Celebration of Life honoring Rodrick will be held at The Carter Memorial Chapel at Twin Oaks Funeral Home in Southaven, MS, on January 6, 2025, at 11:00 AM, with visitation beginning at 10:30 am paving the way for all who loved him to come together, reminisce, and celebrate a life richly lived, filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments.

As we carry the essence of Lippy in our hearts, let us remember the joy he brought to each gathering, the warmth in his gaze, and the laughter that rang through the air wherever he went. In his absence, he leaves behind a legacy that transcends time, a testament to a life well-lived among the family and friends who loved him dearly.