Jared Wayne McKinlay

Jared Wayne McKinlay, (Angus, Jare Bare, Bare, Uncle Bare), 36 years old from Queen Creek, but residing in Snowflake the last 4 years was taken much too soon on Friday, August 22nd in a roll over accident on North Highway 77.  

Jared was born on March 29, 1989 at then named, Desert Samaritan Hospital in Mesa, Arizona to Mark and Sandee McKinlay. He came home to Apache Junction but soon moved to Queen Creek when it was a very small farming community. Later in 2006, the family moved to Snowflake, AZ. He had so many interests they are too many to name. He loved music, was an avid skateboarder in his teens, loved martial arts, snowboarding, playing the guitar and creating music. He was currently working as a diesel mechanic, enjoyed welding, improving his artistic talents and was working on creating a tee-shirt brand he had envisioned for almost a decade.

Jared had a dog, Harley. He was hit by a truck in North Dakota. Rather than put him down, he had his leg amputed and is doing well today. The other three dogs in the household gravitated to him as well, as well as the cat. When he would go outside, the new puppy of the bunch would run through the house whining to go out with him. He didn’t miss an opportunity to give them some attention almost daily.

Life isn’t always easy and struggles come to all, but Jared had a strong will and despite anything that came his way, he remained a pleasant, fun, kind and loving individual. He was so great to be around, and had a natural niche to brighten up others in small ways. His laugh was endearing. He was the fun uncle, a great son and brother. He had the kindest and most caring soul. As so many have written in cards and texts, he would give anyone his last dollar or the clothing off his back. Jared was someone you could count on to help you out.

Following is a piece of a text sent to his family by a friend and co-worker. “That man was a beautiful man, had a beautiful soul, not one hate bone in his body, he would help anybody out”, which perfectly describes him. He was a big, strong man with a big, huge heart and genuine concern for those around him. He was always good for a laugh with his sister and brothers. Since a small child to a grown man, he was always happily engaged in mischief. The look and smile or grin on his face let you know something was coming your way. His precious spirit and presence will be sorely missed. He has inspired us all to be a little better and more like him.

Jared is preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Ruth and Richard Traylor Sr., maternal aunt, Judith Chaney, maternal uncle Richard Traylor Jr. and great-grandparents on both sides.

He is survived by his parents, Mark and Sandee McKinlay; Sister, Taylor Schofield (Drake), Brother, Ammon McKinlay (Chelsey); Brother, Wyatt McKinlay (Amy); Brother, Mayson McKinlay (Katie); along with nephews, Walker Schofield, Daxton McKinlay, Hughstin McKinlay, Hayze McKinlay and niece, Kooper Schofield; Grandparents, Dave and Lee McKinlay; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

Come join us for a viewing-gathering to celebrate him at Owen’s Livingston Mortuary at 84 W. 19th St. Snowflake, AZ 85937 on Thursday August 28, 2025 from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Burial service will be held at San Tan Memorial Gardens at 22425 E. Cloud Rd. Queen Creek, AZ 85142 on Friday August 29, 2025 from 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

A gathering will be held following the service nearby at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints at 21915 E. Cloud Road, Queen Creek, AZ 85142 from 3:15 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

“Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure.

You are loved beyond words, and missed beyond measure”

The Family has asked that no flowers be sent, but your thoughts and prayers are appreciated. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Jared Wayne McKinlay, please visit our floral store.