Gene Darrell McKay, age 92, of Bella Vista, Arkansas, died January 15, 2025, at Circle of Life Hospice.  He was born May 14, 1932, to Arnold and Velda McKay in Duluth, Minnesota.

Gene graduated with a Masters in Pharmacy from the University of Minnesota. His career was primarily in Research & Development with Abbott Laboratories in suburban Chicago.  Understated yet accomplished, Gene was an instrumental part of the development of Erythromycin and eventually retired from Abbott in 1987.

On July 4, 1958, he married Roberta Jean Voss and they were blessed to have 62 years of marriage. They moved to Bella Vista in 1996 where they had a house built on Lake Windsor.  In his element, Gene spent countless hours clearing and beautifully landscaping the waterfront lot. He enjoyed tennis and was an avid golfer spending time on the course with his friends, church group and family. Gene's idea of heaven was golfing well every day.

Gene was an active member of the Presbyterian Church of Bella Vista serving as a Deacon for three intermittent terms until the age of 91.  He passionately lived his faith giving his time and support to the sick, shut-ins and others in need.  He was a dedicated volunteer with Habitat for Humanity and was part of a mission trip for Katrina relief. His giving nature invariably translated to accomplishing yard and home projects when visiting his family, and his commitment to self-improvement through exercising his mind, body and spirit was as remarkable as his quiet wit and warm demeanor.

Gene was preceded in death by his wife, Roberta; sister, Geraldine Nolin, Duluth, MN; and brother, Earl McKay, Fairfax, VA.

Remaining to cherish him are his son, Bradford McKay (Roslyn), Wittenberg, WI; daughter, Shawn McKay, Charleston, SC; and grandchildren, Regan Sampson (Paul), Silver Springs, MD and Madeline McKay, Tillamook, OR.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 7th at the Presbyterian Church of Bella Vista with Rev. Dr. Judi McMillan officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to Circle of Life Hospice, 1201 NE Legacy Parkway, Bentonville, AR 72712.

Arrangements are under the direction of Bella Vista Funeral Home and Crematory. Online condolences may be made at www.funeralmation.com.