Quinn Gunn McKay's Obituary
Quinn Gunn McKay of Huntsville, Utah, passed away May 16, 2026.
He died peacefully, surrounded by family, from incidents due to old age. After all he was 99 1/2 years old.
Dad was known for his warmth, kindness and intellect. He was always mindful of the natural world around him including animals, nature, skylines without clouds and reservoirs full of water. He was most attentive and loving to friends and family and made each of them feel important. After each encounter people left feeling his love.
He enjoyed hooking up the horses and taking people for rides in his buggy. He enjoyed playing tennis with his friends well into his 99th year. He particularly enjoyed lively conversations around the dinner table on almost any subject. He appreciated the value of a life well lived.
Thanks to mentors and friends, dad attended Weber Academy, then moved on to BYU. A professor at BYU then encouraged him to go the Harvard where he earned a masters and PHD. His career in higher education afforded him opportunities to work with universities around the world. Including, Myanmar (Burma), Nigeria, Switzerland, Utah and Texas. A highlight was being the founding director of the MBA program at BYU.
One of Dad's most defining characteristics was his unwavering desire to impact the world and people around him in a positive way. He showed this commitment through his lifelong service and participation in the Rotary Club, American Cancer Society, BYU Alumni Association and several other organizations. He had a great love of this country which included serving as a Marine in World War II.
Dad loved his service in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. His favorite calling was serving as a Mission Leader with Mom in England. He loved all the missionaries like family. Other service opportunities included Gospel Doctrine teacher, bishop (three times) and as a counselor in the church’s Young Men General Presidency.
He was married to Shirley Frame for 68 years and together they had five delightful children (his words not ours): Shirene McKay, Cathy (John) Warburton, David (Toni) McKay, Maryann (Dan) Goodsell, and Rebecca (Jay) Meyer.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley F. McKay; brothers Gunn McKay and Monroe McKay; and sister Ann Downs.
Dad was born the 2nd of eight children and is survived by what is lovingly called “The Final Four,” brother Barrie McKay, sisters Mary Stirland, Liz Seamons Wood, and Williamena Richardson; 11 grandchildren; and 11 great grandchildren.
A viewing will be held Thursday, June 11 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. An additional viewing will be held Friday, June 12 at 10:00 a.m. prior to the funeral service at 11:00 a.m.
The viewing and funeral will be held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints located at 6500 E. 1900 N. in Eden.
A private graveside service will be held at a later date.
What’s your fondest memory of Quinn?
What’s a lesson you learned from Quinn?
Share a story where Quinn's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Quinn you’ll never forget.
How did Quinn make you smile?