Thomas M McKee, III

McKee - Thomas “Tom” McKee III, age 86, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away leaving behind a life marked by family, a distinguished engineering career, and the many experiences and relationships he gathered along the way.

Born in Memphis, Tennessee, on December 17, 1939, Tom was the son of Thomas and Elizabeth (Bumpus) McKee. He attended Little Flower Catholic School and graduated from Christian Brothers High School in 1957. He continued his education at Christian Brothers College, graduating in 1962 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering.

Tom took great pride in his education and his long and accomplished career as a mechanical engineer. A licensed professional engineer in multiple states, his career gave him the opportunity to contribute to a number of significant engineering projects. While working with Boeing, Tom was involved with aerospace projects including the Minuteman intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) program, and he later worked on the Saturn V rocket program in New Orleans. He worked for Honeywell in Memphis, Tennessee, from 1965 to 1969; Rust Engineering from 1969 to 1972; and Bechtel from 1972 to 1995. During his years with Bechtel, his work included the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system, among many other projects. He joined Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) in 1995, where he worked until his retirement.

During his years with Bechtel and PG&E, Tom developed considerable expertise in fossil fuel power generation. His professional knowledge also led him to contribute to the development of safety standards for boilers and fossil fuel power plants. His engineering career and the projects to which he contributed were an important part of his life and a source of great personal pride.

Tom’s mechanical curiosity did not end when the workday was over. He loved building motors and welding and had a lifelong fascination with how things worked. In his younger years, he was involved in boat racing and was an accomplished water skier, participating in water ski shows and competitions. His interest in aviation extended to both control-line and radio-controlled model airplanes, which he enjoyed building and flying. He was also a fan of NASCAR and dirt track racing.

But Tom’s interests weren’t limited to engines and machines. He enjoyed fishing and playing the guitar and was known for his quick wit and sense of humor. Whether working on an engineering project, building something with his hands, racing, flying an airplane, or simply sharing a laugh, Tom approached the things that interested him with enthusiasm and curiosity.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife of 26 years, Sheila Diane Baker; his children and stepchildren, Tommy McKee (Jennifer), Elizabeth McKee-Guest, Nick Zajerko-McKee, Natasha McKee, Elena McKee (Steve), Donna Ray (Johnny), Diane Dixon (David), and Raymond Dixon (Tiffany).

Tom was also a proud grandfather to T.J., son of Tommy; Anna, Luke, and Alice, children of Elena; Johnny (Heather) and Kaitlan (Nathan), children of Donna; Andrew (Haley) and Allison (Austin), children of Diane; and Shane (Leanne), son of Raymond. His family continued to grow with the blessing of seven great-grandchildren.

Throughout his life, Tom was many things to many people—a husband, father, stepfather, grandfather, great-grandfather, colleague, and friend. Like any life spanning more than eight decades, his journey included both changes and challenges, as well as accomplishments, shared experiences, and meaningful connections. He will be remembered for the career of which he was so proud, his remarkable mechanical mind and adventurous spirit, his quick wit, the interests that brought him happiness, and the memories he leaves with his family and friends.

Tom leaves behind a family who will remember him in their own special ways and a lifetime of memories that will remain with those whose lives crossed his.

The tribute above was prepared by Tom’s loving family.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, September 11, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 601 Airport Center Drive E., Jacksonville, FL 32218 with Father Liguori officiating. Interment will follow at Evergreen Cemetery, 4535 N. Main Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206. The family will receive friends on Thursday, September 10, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Cedar Bay Funeral Home, 405 New Berlin Road, Jacksonville, FL 32218.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests any donations be made to St. Patrick Catholic Church in Tom’s memory. Arrangements are under the care and direction of CEDAR BAY FUNERAL HOME, 405 New Berlin Road, Jacksonville, Florida, 32218. (904) 714-1110

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