Dr. Cheryl McKinley, age 75, passed away on July 26, 2022. Devoted mother of Luke Baldauf-McKinley of St. Louis, MO, beloved daughter of the late James and the late Dorothy McKinley, sister of Marty (Pat) McKinley, the late Denise McKinley, and the late Valerie (Burrell) McKinley. Aunt of Paul, Michael, and Neal McKinley; cousin of the McKinley, Fishman, and Wilkinson families in Texas, Arizona, Colorado, Michigan, and Illinois.
Cheryl was a young-at-heart, 75-year-old, who devoted her life to helping others. She earned her PhD in Counseling Psychology from Loyola University in the early 70s and went on to become a clinical psychologist. She later joined the Student Development team at Oakton College and became Professor of Student Development & Psychology, where she served students and faculty until her retirement in 2011. One of her greatest passions was helping to empower other women, which she did through counseling and teaching. Cheryl was a sought-after counselor and mentor during her almost her 40-year tenure at Oakton.
For several years, Cheryl volunteered at the Chicago Food Pantry. She also served political candidates as a volunteer poll worker, even traveling to Florida during the 2004 presidential election. After retirement, Dr. McKinley continued her service as a psychologist to Chicago area nursing home residents. They, and many others, were beneficiaries of Cheryl’s compassion, quiet strength, and her open heart.
Cheryl will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her. A celebration of her life will be held at a later date.
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Cheryl and I were friends since 1963. We corresponded several times over the years. I am so sorry to read of her passing. My condolences to Luke and Charlie.
I am grieving Cheryl’ s passing. We had become very close in recent years. May she rest in peace.
I am grieving Cheryl’s passing. We had gotten very close over the past few years.
Dear Luke, So sorry to hear about your mom who has been a friend of mine since we were together at Loyola. And I knew you as a brand new baby and joy of her life. My heart aches for her loss which still feels unreal to me. I will send a note but can only imagine how difficult your time is now. Heartfelt condolences.
I just learned of Cheryl’s passing. We were colleagues at Oakton, professors of Student Development. When I started there in 1980 Cheryl mentored me and was incredibly helpful to me in many ways. I left Oakton in 1984 to open a psychology practice which continued until I retired in 2012. I wish I’d kept in touch with Cheryl over the years and am very sad she’s no longer with us.