Hester Mae McKinney Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Born July 5, 1941, in York County, South Carolina, entered into eternal rest on June 9, 2022, at the age of 80 in Beltsville, MD, surrounded by loved ones. The daughter of the late Albert and Dovie Brice, Hester was the youngest of three children, preceded in death by Louise Brice McClean (Sister) and Wade Kenneth Brice (Brother). Hester was educated in Gaston County Public Schools. After school completion, Hester married Otha Budell McKinney in 1956. Hester had her sights on Greatness in 1961 when she and Budell moved to Washington, DC. Early in her career, Hester worked managing a family-run Home Linens and Décor Boutique in Chevy Chase. Hester would provide decorative home ideas and foster relationships with some of Washington’s most elite socialites. Hester’s passion for youth and community guided her to work for the DC Public School system. She served students at Terrell Junior High and Lasalle Elementary School, where she retired in 1995. In addition to her career in education, as a God-fearing and devoted servant of the Lord, nothing pleased Hester more than spending time in church. In 1971 Hester joined the Meridian Hill Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Rev. Dr. Roosevelt McIntyre, followed by the Leadership of Rev. Dr. Calvin E. Cage Sr. As a devoted member, Hester served and led the work of several ministries at Meridian Hill, including; President of the Missionary Circle, President of the Willing Workers Ministry, and Head of the Family Food Ministry. Hester loved singing with the Meridian Hill Echo-Senior and Mass Choir. While attending Meridian Hill Baptist Church, she received a PASTORAL AWARD for FAITHFUL LEADERSHIP. Pursuing her passion for helping others led by the spirit of God, Hester enrolled in Howard University to obtain a certification in Evangelism. After failing health and no longer being able to attend Meridian Hill, she joined Mt. Jezreel Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Eldridge Spearman. Hester is known to be a prayer warrior! She frequently prayed with her neighbors, colleagues, children’s friends, and others she didn’t know but whose names were given to her by people in her daily life. When Hester was not in church or working, you could find her spending time with her family. Hester loved to cook some of the most incredible meals you have ever had in your life, joke, entertain, and enjoy family meals and laughter around the table. She was always prepared with extras to feed anyone who walked through the door. Hester was a people person with a very infectious smile. She never met a stranger and found ways to connect with people regardless of their walk of life. When visiting Hester at home, you would undoubtedly hear her gospel music and preaching playing throughout the house, giving her home a calming and welcoming feeling. The preaching, singing, and praising never stopped, much like David’s dance. Hester worshiped and praised God All Day Long! Hester leaves to cherish her memories of 7 children, Vernessa Richardson (James), Columbus McKinney (Sandra), Lawrence McKinney, Angela Thompson (Earthy), Alvin Tucker, Alicia Tucker, and Augustus Tucker. 16 Grandchildren, 11 Great Grandchildren, 1 Great-great Grandson, and a Hostess of nieces and nephews from (VA, DC, MD, NC, and RI). Goddaughters Kiyonna Moton and Crystal Vines, and Godson Bernard Bodden. Preceded in death by two sons, Carlos and Vincent McKinney, and Husband, Otha Budell Mckinney.

Tributes

Hester Mae McKinney

July 5, 1941 - June 9, 2022