Robert L. McKay, of Willard, was born July 17, 1936 in Pittsville, MO to Harry and Eula McKay. He passed away March 16, 2014 in Mercy Hospital at the age of 77.

He was a 1954 graduate of Holden High School, was a member of the Missouri National Guard for 38 years and worked at the AVCRAD for 30 years. He was a member of the Hedgehoppers Flying Club and was the maintenance officer. He was involved with aviation both public and private. For a time he was a designated mechanics examiner for FAA. He also worked 11 years for Duncan Aviation and taught aviation science for 2 semesters at the College of the Ozarks.

Robert was preceded in death by a wife, Rieta McKay and his parents. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Barbara; daughter, Renee and Greg Knight; son, Scott and Leslie McKay; grandchildren, Colin and Amelia and a host of family and friends.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 from 6-8 pm in Klingner-Cope Family Funeral Home at White Chapel, 5234 W State Hwy EE (Division), Springfield, MO. A service will be on Thursday, March 20, 2014 at 10:30 am in the funeral home. Interment will be in White Chapel Memorial Gardens.