Funeral services for Jesse Speed McKay age 77 of Lindale are set for 2:00 p.m. Monday January 11, 2010 at First United Methodist Church Lindale. Interment will follow in the Lindale City Cemetery under the direction of Caudle-Rutledge Funeral Home.

Mr. McKay died January 7, 2010 in Tyler after a brief illness. A native of Smith county Mr. McKay was born in Arp, Texas on February 9, 1932 to W.H. and Honor McKay. He was the youngest of ten children .He is survived by Margaret McKay, his loving wife of 53 years.

Ruth Owens of Nashville, TN and sons J. Scott McKay and wife Kristi, of Sugar Land; Doug McKay of Lindale; and David W. McKay and wife Agnes of Baytown and grandchildren Christopher, Texas A&M and Katherine and Helen of Baytown and many nieces and nephews.

Jesse was a graduate of Tyler Jr. College, and North Texas State University, Jesse, a career public school educator, Margaret and sons moved back to East Texas in 1967 where he taught 7th &; 8th grade math. Prior to Lindale he taught school in Gordon and Midland. Before retiring in the late 80s he was the tax assessor-collector for Lindale ISD.

He enjoyed his garden, his family, following his favorite sports teams and keeping up with friends from around the country via the Internet. Jesse was active in his church serving on numerous committees, teaching Sunday School, serving as usher and many other roles including serving on the committee that relocated the church to its current location in the 70s. He was also a regular volunteer at the East Texas Food Bank.

McKay was instrumental in organizing the Arp high school alumni fellowship group "The Forty-niners."

He was active in many of life's arenas until his last week and will be missed as one who knew the importance of "being present" to groups and congregations.

Pall bearers will be Tom Brewster, Christopher McKay, Jack Johnson, Carlis Yelverton, Tommy Mallory, and Phil Brakebill.

Memorials can be made to First United Methodist Church of Lindale, or the charity of choice.

Family will receive friends from 2-4 PM Sunday at the funeral home.