Vickie Ann McKinney

With a heart that gave endlessly, Vickie Ann McKinney passed away on August 23, 2025, just days before her 76th birthday in Idaho Falls, Idaho.

Vickie was born on August 26, 1949, in Idaho Falls, to Shirley and Victor Wheeler, and later adopted by Marcellene and Albert Wheeler. Vickie’s life was marked by enduring love for her family and her friends.

She grew up in Ririe, Idaho, and eventually made her home in Rigby, and later Shelley, Idaho, where she remained until her passing. Over the years, Vickie married Calvin Christiansen, with whom she had a son, Brian. They later divorced. In 1972, she married Bob McKinney, and together they had two children, Malina and Robert. In 1983, Vickie adopted her youngest daughter, Lacie, completing her family.

Though life brought its share of challenges, Vickie faced them with strength and grace. She found fulfillment in many roles throughout her life, from a hardworking house cleaner to a passionate dance teacher. Her love of dancing was lifelong, and she spent many years sharing that passion with others through teaching.

In 1995, Vickie proudly earned her associate’s degree from Eastern Idaho Technical College, a testament to her determination and lifelong love of learning. She also did incredible work on her family’s history, preserving stories, names, and connections for generations to come.

Vickie had a rare gift for making ordinary moments feel extraordinary. She loved a good cup of coffee and a long, meaningful conversation at the kitchen table. She shared a unique and special bond with her grandchildren, often offering a warm meal, a listening ear, and a safe place to land. Her hands were often busy crocheting gifts for others, tending to her garden, canning fruits and vegetables, or cooking for the people she loved. She had a spirited love of basketball, a fondness for Willie Nelson, and enjoyed relaxing with a cold glass of Pepsi.

Those who knew Vickie will remember her as the kindest of souls—someone who gave without hesitation, even when she had little to give. Her heart was limitless, her generosity unmatched, and her love deeply felt by all who knew her.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Marcellene and Albert Wheeler; Shirley Drollinger and Victor Wheeler; her sons, Robert McKinney and Brian McKinney; and many other beloved family members. She is survived by her daughters, Malina and Lacie McKinney, both of Shelley, Idaho; her brother, Randy (Judy) Wheeler of Ririe, Idaho; 13 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; and countless others whose lives she touched.

Vickie’s life was a testament to the power of kindness, resilience, and the beauty of giving all you can, no matter how much or how little. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A funeral service in honor of Vickie will be held on Friday, September 12, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. at Sagebrush Studio & Event Space, 800 Park Ave, Idaho Falls, Idaho 83402.

Interment of her ashes will follow at Pioneer Cemetery in Rigby, Idaho. The family will receive visitors from 10:30 to 11:15 a.m., prior to the service.

All are welcome to attend and celebrate Vickie’s life.