McKinney “Jimmy” Huff was a man who never met a stranger. To know Jimmy was to love him, and he loved others with all of his being. His warm smile, generous spirit, and genuine compassion touched everyone who crossed his path.

A devoted servant of God, Jimmy faithfully served as a Deacon of his church, where his presence and prayers brought comfort and encouragement to many. He lived his faith daily, inviting in friends, helping strangers, and sharing God’s love through both word and deed.

In his earlier years, Jimmy made history as one of the first Black men to join the Pipefitters Union. He was highly skilled in his trade and deeply respected within the industry for his dedication, craftsmanship, and strong work ethic. His hands built more than structures, they built opportunity, respect, and a legacy of perseverance for those who came after him.

Jimmy was also deeply involved in his community, proudly serving on the Zoning Board in Bedford, where he contributed his voice and vision to the place he called home. He believed in service, in the church, in the community, and in life.

He was especially proud of his five beautiful daughters-Lanita Glass, Kenya Brown, Sylena Huff, Sabrina Huff, and Comaleathia Sturdivant, whom he loved and adored with all his heart. Jimmy delighted in their accomplishments and never missed a chance to brag about them, his grandchildren, and his extended family to anyone who would listen. Family was the heartbeat of his life.

Jimmy’s joy was infectious. He was jovial, funny, and full of light, a man whose laughter could fill a room. His life was also a living testimony of grace and redemption. Having faced challenges of his own, Jimmy turned his life around and dedicated himself to helping others do the same. Through his work in prison ministry, he offered hope and encouragement to the downtrodden, showing that even through the darkest times, God’s light still shines.

He lived a wonderful, purposeful life, a beacon of hope and an example of transformation that inspired everyone who knew him.

Jimmy leaves behind his loving wife, Jane Huff; his devoted daughters, Lanita, Kenya, Sylena, Sabrina, and Comaleathia; many cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren; his devoted brother, Thaddeus Carlton; and his loving sister, Vickie Carlton. He also leaves behind a host of aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, cousins, and dear friends who will forever carry his memory in their hearts.

He was well loved, and he will be deeply missed-but his legacy of faith, love, laughter, and service will live on in all who were blessed to know him.

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.”

– 2 Timothy 4:7 (KJV)

Well done, good and faithful servant… enter into the joy of your Lord.

– Matthew 25:23 (KJV)