As a dedicated mother first and foremost, it is only fitting that Barbara Ellen Dyche McKee, (Barb) 78 peacefully pass away, at home, on February 5, 2021 surrounded by the love of her family.

Barb was born in Martinsburg, WV in 1942 to the late Winfred H. Dyche and Ellen Christina Brant Dyche. On February 6, 1971 she married the love of her life, Michael Allen “Mick” McKee who preceded her in death in 2008. There is comfort in knowing Barb and Mick are celebrating what would have been their 50th anniversary together for eternity.

Barb attended Martinsburg High School (class of 1960) where she was the lead majorette and involved in school organizations. She continued her education at Shepherd College, prior to working at Potomac Edison until the birth of their daughter, Alyson, when she dedicated her life to her most valued job, being a mother and wife. Barb resided in Maugansville, MD where she was a faithful member of Emmanuel United Methodist Church. She was involved in the local community with the Women’s Club of Hagerstown, Garden Club, Maugansville Homemakers, American Red Cross, and YMCA.

Her loyalty and devotion to friends and family was admirable. The Church Chicks, the Ice Cream Bunch, the Birthday Girls, the Barbara’s Club each held a special place in her heart. Her witty sense of humor, thoughtfulness, and smile made you feel as if you had known her a lifetime if yet only meeting for the first time. We will miss her hand-written cards with thoughtful messages and reminders to, “be happy, be healthy and know you are loved.”

In 2018, Barb relocated to The Village at Orchard Ridge in Winchester. Barb cherished her time spent walking along the beaches of the Outer Banks collecting sea treasures as she would refer to the rare finds the tide deposits at the water’s edge. Barb created many memories there with, as she would say, “sun, surf, sand, and smiles.”

Loving and devoted mother to Alyson Paige McKee Humphreys and son-in-law Michael Humphreys. Cherished sister, aunt, great aunt, and supportive friend, Barb is survived by her sister Linda Dyche Fonzi (Sam), niece Mendi Wingfield (Brian), niece Amy Cormier (Courtney), and great nephew Tyler Cormier.

After a graveside interment, at Cedar Lawn Memorial Gardens, Saturday, February 20th, 2021 a celebration to honor Barb’s love for family and friends will be held later this year when it is safe to gather. Arrangements are being handled by Omps Funeral Home, Amherst Chapel. You may offer condolences or share a memory at www.ompsfuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Blue Ridge Hospice, 333 W. Cork St., Winchester, VA 22601 and The Angel Trust, c/o Shenandoah Oncology, 400 Campus Blvd, Suite 100, Winchester, VA 22601.

In Barb’s honor please remember to love wholly while you can. Be the person that calls, writes, and connects to those you hold dear. Through these actions, her joyous spirit will live on.