James Dodds McKee

November 15, 2011

James Dodds McKee died Sunday, Nov. 13, 2011.
Jim was born in Starkville on June 13, 1946. He graduated from Starkville High School and Mississippi State University. He worked at the Starkville Public Library for several years before going to New York City in the mid-70’s where he met a longtime hero, Walter Lord, author of “A Night to Remember,” an account of the sinking of the Titanic. As a result of the friendship, he took a job at the New York Historical Society Library where he worked until his return to Starkville several years later. He again worked at the Starkville Library.
After his years as a librarian, he continued to pursue his interests in reading, music and finer arts, and spent time with his circle of friends whose lives he greatly influenced, and his rescue cats which he tended for as long as he was able. He was a good friend to many people, and was known for his wit and quick mind. Because of his love of books and knowledge, he always had interesting ideas to discuss. He will be greatly missed.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Joe Earl McKee and Monteith (Peevy) McKee.
He is survived by a brother, Robert L. McKee.
He will be laid to rest in a private burial at Memorial Garden Park.
Welch Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.