Lavern "Pete" McNary, 65, of Cincinnati, Ohio, peacefully departed this life on June 27, 2026.

Pete was born on May 16, 1961, in Memphis, Tennessee, to the late Lee Mitchell and Victoria McNary. He was also preceded in death by his grandparents, Freddie May Millan and Ernest McNary, whose legacy and love helped shape the man he became.

Pete shared his childhood and many memories with his siblings, Willie Earl McNary Jr. and Netlora Mitchell, and carried with him a deep appreciation for family throughout his life.

After high school at Roosevelt High School, Pete answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Army in 1979. His service reflected the strength, determination, and resilience that would continue to define his life for years to come.

Pete was formerly married to Jana Harrison Cruse, and together they welcomed their beautiful daughter, LaKeya McNary, who remained one of the greatest joys of his life. He later welcomed Marcus Cannon as a beloved son-in-love and treasured the family they built together. He also had a bonus daughter Miquela Johnson whom he loved as his very own, embracing her with the same care, pride, and devotion that defined his role as a father.

Known affectionately as "Pete" to family and friends, he enjoyed staying busy and doing the things he loved most. He had a special talent for rehabbing houses and took great pride in fixing things up and giving them new life.

As a home renovator, he had an eye for potential and a passion for transformation. He loved caring for dogs and had a soft spot for animals. He loved bowling. Music brought him joy, and he never passed up the chance to enjoy a good song or hit the dance floor.

More than anything, Pete loved his family. He was a loving father and a proud grandfather who cherished his daughter LaKeya and granddaughters, Kalyce and Deyani, and treasured the time they shared together.

Pete was baptized at the age of 13 at Calvary Baptist Church in St. Louis, Missouri. He loved the Lord and carried his faith with him throughout his life, finding strength and comfort in his relationship with God.

Anyone who knew Pete likely heard one of his favorite sayings: “Say no more, say no less.” It was simple, direct, and perfectly reflected the straightforward spirit and authenticity that made him so memorable to those who loved him.

Pete leaves to cherish his memory his devoted daughter, LaKeya McNary; granddaughters, Kalyce Ivery and Deyani Wright; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members who will forever remember his amazing personality, his love, his laughter, and the joy he brought into the lives of those around him.

Though Pete's presence will be deeply missed, his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Friends are cordially invited to a visitation with the family from 1:00 pm until 2:00 pm, on Sunday, July 12, 2026, at the Walker Funeral Home - Walnut Hills Chapel, 2625 Gilbert Avenue, Cincinnati (45206). The funeral service will immediately follow the visitation, beginning at 2:00 pm. Friends and family will gather to share memories, find solace in one another's company, and honor the legacy he leaves behind.

He will be laid to rest at Vine Street Hill Cemetery, 3701 Vine Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45220.

We invite you to take a few moments to share fond memories and words of comfort and condolence with the McNary family. Please click the "Tribute Wall" icon above and to the right, enter the information, and click "Save Post."

Walker Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for the McNary family during this difficult time. Please call 513.251.6200 or visit www.HerbWalker.com for additional information.