Gaylord A. McKee, 80, of Warren, IL, passed away on August 5, 2026, at his home surrounded by his family. He was born on February 10, 1946, in Freeport, IL to Willis and May (Vickers) McKee. Gaylord married Kathryn Meier on February 27, 1966, at the United Methodist Church in Warren.

He farmed for over 60 years outside of Warren. Gaylord was an active member in his community; he had served as President of the Warren School Board and helped in building the Warren Booster Club and Warren summer youth sport programs. Gaylord also served on the Warren Ambulance service for many years. Gaylord was an avid hunter and fisherman. He loved being outdoors and was especially proud of his giant buck that he harvested, which he nicknamed “Bullwinkle”, a hunting experience that he never tired of telling.

If you knew Gaylord, you knew he loved to talk. A trip to town was never quick because he always had time to visit with friends old and new. He had a contagious laugh, a mischievous sense of humor, and was always ready to pull a harmless prank on someone he cared about. When he wasn’t visiting, you could usually find him in his garden, where he spent many hours tending to his plants – especially his prize tomatoes. He loved making people smile, sharing stories, and enjoying the simple pleasures of life. His laughter, kindness, and steady presence will be deeply missed by everyone who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his wife- Kathryn of Warren; children – Jodi Kaiser and Janel (Troy) Bader both of Monroe, WI, Willie (Carleen) McKee and Gabe McKee both of Warren ; grandchildren- Janelle (Jim) Jaeggi, Jacob (Stephanie) Wolff, Jordan (Lily) Kaiser, Jessica (Reid) Kaiser, Aspen Bader, Alexa Bader, Dylan (Anna) McKee, Lauren McKee, Collin McKee, Alivia Thruman, Madison McKee, Isabella McKee, Gabe McKee, Henleigh McKee, and Raegyn McKee; ten great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters Janice Toay and Colleen McKee.

Visitation will be held from 4:00- 8:00 P.M. on Friday, August 14, 2026, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Warren.

Funeral Services will begin at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church.

Internment will take place at Elmwood Cemetery.

Luncheon to follow at the McKee Farm.

A memorial has been established in his name.

The family would like to thank the Healthcare Team at SSM Monroe Hospital and SSM Monroe Hospice for their care and compassion, as well as Joanna Neff and her wonderful in-home care team.