Alice McKee, 91

A memorial service for Alice McKee, 91, of Caulfield, was held June 28, 2024, in the Clinkingbeard Funeral Home chapel in Gainesville with Mike Heston and Wayne Stewart officiating.

She died peacefully with her family by her side on  June 24. She was born in Gilcrest, Colorado, May 3, 1933. She was the youngest of five children.  

Alice was the loving and faithful wife of Don McKee for 53 years before his death in 2007. Don and Alice were married on June 28, 1953. Alice and Don formed the 77 Ranch Rodeo company and traveled to several states putting on professional rodeos. They were members of the IPRA, ARA, ACA and put on many college rodeos. In 1985, they sold the rodeo business and raised Black Angus on the ranch. 

Alice was known for her warm, loving and genuine personality that made everyone feel welcome and loved. She had an infectious smile and laugh, and the room lit up when she entered.

For many years, she was a rodeo secretary and worked as an Ozark County election judge and at the ladies extension. She was a devout Christian and a longtime active member of Fowler Chapel, where she served as the treasurer. She also served as treasurer for the Marshal Cemetery.  

She loved attending her grandchildren's and great-grandchildren’s ballgames, rodeos and school functions. She enjoyed watching the St. Louis Cardinals, ice skating, eating ice cream and always had funny quotes.

She is survived by her three children: J.D. McKee and wife Karen, Suzie Green and husband John and Don ”Buzz” McKee Jr.; 10 grandchildren: Justin, Jason, Jeremy, Casey, Ty, Lance, Colby, Drew, Dustin, Tyler; and 19 great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her husband Don McKee; parents William and Gladys Belcher; four brothers: Oliver, Tard, Bill and Raymond; and two grandsons: Colby and Lance.

Memorial contributions may be made to Marshall Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the direction of Clinkingbeard Funeral Home, Gainesville.