Roger Dean McKinney

Roger Dean McKinney, of Commerce, Texas, passed away at his home on May 19, 2026. Roger was born on September 18,1948 to Edith Oma (Haley) McKinney and Henderson Wince McKinney.

A visitation will take place on Saturday, May 23, 2026 from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at Commerce Funeral Home. A funeral will be held immediately following beginning at 10:00 a.m. Burial will be in Cuthand Cemetery, Bogota, Texas.

Roger attended Rivercrest High School, graduating with the class of 1966. He went on to earn a bachelor's degree from West Texas State University in 1972, and a master’s degree from East Texas State University in 1974.

Roger married the love of his life, Connie Lee McDaniel on June 27, 1970 in Amarillo, Texas. The two were inseparable and loved spending time with each other. They enjoyed 56 years of marriage before her passing in 2025.

Roger found his passion in serving in local government. He was City Planner in Wichita Falls, Texas for 20 years prior to moving to Commerce, Texas. He then spent 9 years serving the Commerce community as City Manager before retiring. Not too long after, Roger came out of retirement and served as City Manager for Slaton, Texas for 7 years.

Roger answered the call to serve not for recognition, but out of a sincere belief that small towns matter, neighbors matter, and good government can improve everyday life. Over the course of his distinguished career, he became known as a thoughtful listener, a careful steward of public resources, and a leader who understood that progress is built one relationship at a time. Roger’s life stands as a lasting reminder that service, done faithfully and without fanfare, can leave a town—and the people in it—better than it was found.

When Roger wasn’t working, he loved spending time with his family. He enjoyed coaching his sons’ games over the years, going fishing and hunting, and travelling with Connie.

Left to cherish Roger’s memory are sons Shawn H. Ryan McKinney (Delia) and Justin D. Brent McKinney; brother, Edd McKinney; sister, Polly Luke; grandchildren Cas and Micah McKinney, and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

Roger is preceded in death by his parents; wife, Connie; brothers Curtis, Robert Lee, Henderson Wince, Jr., Charles Rainey, and Bill; and sister, Ercelle Gooding.

Serving as Pallbearers for Roger are: Kerry Crews, Steve Harrison, Allen Elmore, Ryan McKinney, and Micah McKinney. Honorary bearers are: Johnny Painter and Steve Shennum.