Patrick McGinnis

Patrick McGinnis

1939 – 2016McGinnis, Patrick obit 2

Patrick Edward McGinnis was born June 1, 1939, in Beebe, Arkansas, to John Clark McGinnis and Lois Duff McGinnis. He and his three siblings grew up on the campus of Arkansas A&M at Monticello.

Patrick began his career in radio at the campus radio station, KHBM. Each morning, he would begin the day on the air, spend the day in class at Drew Central High School, and report directly back to the radio station, where he worked until sign off each evening. This began a radio broadcasting career of over 40 years.

Patrick completed his Bachelor’s Degree at Arkansas A&M, and continued his Masters and Ph.D. studies in American History at Tulane, where he was granted a scholarship.

He taught American History at Arkansas A&M until 1968, when he moved to Edmond for a position at Central State College (UCO.) While a full professor, he continued his broadcasting career at KOFM, KKNG, and WKY. He had many devoted listeners who admired his smooth baritone voice, including one Rita Payne, who happily became his wife in 1973.

Patrick was the father of Leah McDonald, of Edmond, and Amanda Cormack, of Abilene, Kansas. Patrick and Rita raised their family in Edmond. Patrick taught at UCO until his retirement in 2000, and continued teaching part-time as Adjunct Professor until 2013.

In addition to his careers as teacher and broadcaster, Patrick enjoyed an extended stint as actor and historic reenact-or. A loyal patron of Arts at St. Luke’s, he was cast in roles at Poteet Theater, including Scrooge in Scrooge The Musical, FDR in Annie, Dr. Sanderson in Harvey, and Henry in The Fantasticks. In addition to his time at Poteet, Patrick joined Great Plains Chautauqua in 2004, portraying Captain William Clark. In subsequent years, Patrick travelled throughout the Midwest as Clark, FDR, and General Grenville Dodge. His thorough knowledge of history made this an easy and enjoyable “job” for him, and he and Rita enjoyed traveling together and making new friends as a result.

Patrick was a devoted member of St. Luke’s United Methodist Church for over 40 years. He sang in the choir and taught the Heritage and Beacon Bible classes. He enjoyed many diverse activities, including swimming, backpacking, RailFans, and attending the Tulsa Opera. Patrick was an accomplished musician, and cherished playing his grand piano for his granddaughters and anyone else who was blessed to listen.

He is survived by his wife, Rita, daughters Leah and Amanda, sons-in-law Kevin McDonald and Christopher Cormack, granddaughters Ella Kate and Emily Jane McDonald, and Claire Marin Cormack. Also surviving are his brother, Dr. Tom McGinnis of Johnson City, TN, and sister, Susan Calaway, Fairfield Bay, AR; sister-in-law Myrna Payne, New York City, nieces and nephews, and many dear friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held 11:00 AM, Saturday, February 20th, at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 222 NW 15th St, Oklahoma City, OK 73103.

6 thoughts on “Patrick McGinnis”

  1. Lindy and Ken Adams

    What a beautiful obituary describing the full, rich, and principled life Patrick lived. We grieve with you, Rita, and Leah and Amanda and families. It’s hard to fathom what a monumental loss this is for you all. We love you, Lindy and Ken

  2. Jason and Edwina Johnston

    Thank you for sharing Patrick with us these past 40 + years. Our friendship is a treasure. Blessing to Rita and family.

    Jason and Edwina Johnston

  3. Great Uncle Pat,
    I love you so much! You will be missed greatly. You were a fantastic person! I’m so happy I was apart of your family.

  4. Helen (McNulty) Pitts

    I had the sincere pleasure of being one of Dr. McGinnis’ honors history students at UCO (formerly Central State University), and am very saddened by his passing. He was an inspiring professor and such a positive influence on his students with whom he shared his passion for history, broadcasting, the arts and his family. He will be missed. Our prayers and thoughts are with your family.

  5. Jeddie Botsford

    Dear Rita, Leah, Amanda and your families,

    Your grief is shared by many, especially the students whose lives Patrick touched. He was such a multi-talented, dynamic man and teacher, he will be truly missed by all who knew him and were fortunate enough to call him a friend. Blessings and sympathies to you all.

    Norm & Jeddie

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