Elmer Wayne McKay

ATC Elmer Wayne McKay, USN, Ret., 79, passed away Wednesday, August, 2, 2023 at his home in Atlantic, VA. Born August 16, 1943 in Baltimore, MD, he was the only child of the late Howard McKay and Isa Mae Collins McKay.

In 1960, Elmer graduated from Parkville High School in Baltimore and enlisted in the United States Navy, beginning his service during the Vietnam War. Over the next 21 years he rose through the ranks, excelling in aviation electronics and engineering. Following Elmer’s retirement in 1981, he and Mildred moved to the Eastern Shore of Virginia. For many years, he worked for the NASA Wallops Flight Facility contractor, LTV, who was responsible for the development of the Scout launch vehicle. During his time at Wallops, he also engineered and set up the original displays for the NASA Visitor’s Center.

From a young age, Elmer and his father began making model trains together, a hobby that became a lifelong passion for Elmer. He was a longtime member of the Delmar Model Railroad Society, and over the years, meticulously constructed model trains and designed and created backgrounds for each station. Elmer also built several radio-controlled airplanes.

Though humble and kind, and never boastful, Elmer McKay made significant contributions through his life in service to others.   

He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Mildred Lucille McKay, and his daughters, Traccie, Tina, and Tammy and their families.

To honor his wishes, the family will gather for private interment at the John W. Taylor Cemetery in Temperanceville, VA. 

Contributions in Elmer’s memory may be made to Riverside Shore Hospice, P.O. Box 616, Onley, VA 23418 or to Oak Hall Rescue, P.O. Box 128, Oak Hall, VA 23416. 

Memory tributes may be shared with the family at www.willliamsfuneralhomes.com. 

Arrangements by the Williams-Parksley Funeral Home. 

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