Marylis "Lili" McKinney

Marylis “Lili” McKinney

1954 – 2026

Marylis “Lili” McKinney, of Springfield, PA, passed away on October 19, 2026, at the age of 72. Larger than life, full of energy, and known for her unmistakable personality, Lili had a way of leaving a lasting impression on everyone she met. She lived with passion, loved fiercely, and brought a warmth and spirit into the lives of those around her that will never be forgotten.

Born 1954 in Bordeaux, France Lili was the daughter of Ginette Gulienne (née Lapeyronnie) DeSipio. She moved to the United States at the age of 11, but her summers were spent back in France with her grandparents, whom she absolutely adored. Those summers held a special place in her heart and remained some of her fondest memories throughout her life.

Lili was a driving force behind Old Original Nick's Roast Beef, working alongside her late husband, Jeff, to carry on and grow the family legacy. A true force to be reckoned with, Lili knew exactly what she wanted and never settled for anything less. She took tremendous pride in the quality of the food and the reputation behind the Nick's name, often reminding her family that it was never about her or Jeff, it was about the sandwich. She loved being out on the floor, connecting with customers and employees alike, leaving a lasting impression with her larger-than-life personality and genuine love of people.

Lili and Jeff shared 46 years of marriage and a love that was admired by all who knew them. Her fiery personality and his calm, adventurous spirit complemented each other beautifully. They built their life together from humble beginnings in a little trailer in Virginia, where Lili worked as a French teacher, a profession she loved. Their early years were filled with simple joys, including family camping trips to Lake Anna. Eventually, life brought them to Pennsylvania to help with the family business. Over the years, they enjoyed traveling, adventures aboard their beloved boat, The Lili Pad, and making countless memories together. Lili especially loved hosting gatherings and preparing incredible feasts, always making enough food to feed an army. She took tremendous pride in her cooking, and nothing brought her more joy than bringing the people she loved together around her table.

Above all, Lili's greatest pride and joy was her family. She loved fiercely, protected those she held dear, and would go to any length for the people she loved. She had a special way of making life's moments memorable, especially holidays and birthdays, always going above and beyond to make everyone feel loved and celebrated. Becoming a grandmother brought her immeasurable joy, and she treasured every moment spent with her grandchildren. Her love was big, her presence unforgettable, and the memories she created will be cherished for generations to come.

Lili was the beloved wife of the late Jeffrey P. “Jeff” McKinney. She is survived by her dear mother, Ginette Gulienne DeSipio; her treasured children, Patrick McKinney (Jenn) and Megan Rose (Brian); and her precious grandchildren, Maren Jolene, Maximus Wolf, and Ziggy Pearl.

Relatives and friends are invited to honor Lili at her services beginning with a Visitation on Monday evening, October 26, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at The Donohue Funeral Home, 3300 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square, PA 19073.

Services will continue on Tuesday morning, October 27, 2026, with a Visitation from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at St. Pius X Church, 220 Lawrence Road, Broomall, PA 19008, followed by a Funeral Mass commencing at 10:00 AM. Interment will follow at SS. Peter and Paul Cemetery, Springfield, PA.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Lili's memory may be made to the Chester County Down Syndrome Interest Group (CCDSIG), https://www.ccdsig.org/.