Edward "Bud" Dawson Mckee, Jr

Edward "Bud" Dawson McKee, Jr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on February 28, 2026, at the age of 93. Born on May 23, 1932, in Wilmont, Arkansas, Bud was the cherished son of Edward Dawson McKee and Hester Morris McKee. Growing up in the close-knit community of Wilmont, Bud's life was grounded in the values of hard work, integrity, and service. He graduated from Wilmot High School in 1950 and then served his country with pride in the United States Air Force from 1950 to 1954. After his military service, Bud pursued higher education and earned a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from the University of Texas, a testament to his dedication and love of learning. On July 5, 1953, Bud married the love of his life, Eula Jean Mills, in their hometown of Wilmot. Their marriage of 72 years was a beacon of love and partnership, characterized by mutual respect and unwavering support. Together, they built a beautiful family and shared countless adventures. Bud's professional journey began with Texas Instruments in Dallas, Texas, but his entrepreneurial spirit soon led him back to Arkansas. In Crossett, he founded the McKee Company, which served the lumber and paper industry throughout the southeastern United States. Known affectionately as a "peddler" by his peers, Bud was renowned for his integrity and dedication. His career spanned several decades until his retirement in the 1990s, when he and Eula Jean relocated to the serene shores of Table Rock Lake in Holiday Island, Arkansas. A man of deep faith and community spirit, Bud was an active member of several boards, including the First National Bank of Crossett, Ozark Guidance, ECHO, and the Arkansas State Hospital. His contributions to these organizations reflected his commitment to improving the lives of those around him. Bud is survived by his devoted wife, Eula Jean McKee, his loving daughter, Lorri Anne Graham, and her husband, James B. Graham. He leaves behind a legacy of love in his grandchildren, Ryan H. Graham (Rebekka L. Goettert), Nicholas J. Graham (Kaitlin O. Graham), and Amara Jean Graham. He is also survived by his brother, Billy Wayne McKee, and his wife, Volene, as well as his nephews, Gary McKee (Talida) and Allen McKee, and niece Connie McKee. He was predeceased by his parents, Edward and Hester McKee, and his dear son, John Logan McKee, whose memory he cherished deeply. A service to celebrate Bud's remarkable life will be held on March 14, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at the Holiday Island Community Church, located at 188 Stateline Drive, Holiday Island, AR 72631. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Circle of Life Hospice, an organization that provided compassionate care and support to Bud and his family during his final days. Donations can be made at https://www.circleoflifecare.org/donate. Edward "Bud" Dawson McKee, Jr. was a man who lived his life with purpose, humility, and love. His legacy will continue to inspire all who knew him, and he will be deeply missed.