Clare Jo McKinley passed away surrounded by her loved ones on January 19, 2026, in Boise, ID, due to natural causes. She was born Clare Jo Hull on June 8, 1937, in Grangeville, ID to Kieth Hull and Eunice Williams Hull. Clare Jo was the oldest of five children: two brothers and two sisters. She grew up in Cascade, ID, and Arco, ID, where she attended school and was a cheerleader. Clare Jo met the love of her life, Taylor "Ted" McKinley, at the local watering hole in Arco, ID, while playing pool one evening. Wedding bells were imminent, and they were soon married on February 12, 1957. Ted and Clare Jo welcomed their first child, William Shane McKinley, in 1957, then Colin "Cole" McKinley in 1959, Cassidy Lee McKinley in 1963, & Kelly Sue McKinley in 1966.

Clare Jo lived in many different states throughout her lifetime, often due to her husband's career in ironworking. She raised her family in Arco, ID, alongside her husband, Ted, where they made a home. As a family they enjoyed camping at Redfish Lake, water skiing & snow skiing. Her hobbies were crocheting, spending time with family, and playing pinochle with family and friends. Most people, especially her family, loved Clare Jo for her unconditional love. She provided so much comfort to everyone she came into contact with, not with tasks or items, but with her presence. She will be greatly missed by all. She is survived by her siblings Cindy (Jeff) Blaine, Kenny (Pam) Lakey, and Kim Lakey. Her children are Kelly Smith, Cole McKinley, & Shane (Debra) McKinley. Including six grandchildren and seven great-grandkids. She is preceded in death by Keith Hull & Eunice Lakey (parents), Taylor "Ted" McKinley (husband), Cassidy Lee McKinley (son), Butch Hull (brother), and Doug Smith (son-in-law).

The family is planning a Celebration of Life to be held at a later date.