Roy McKie RIP

(Roy McKie in a 2013 photo by Suzette Wenger for Lancaster Online)

Cartoonist and children's book illustrator Roy McKie died on January 8, 2015 in New Holland, PA. He was 93.

A prolific children's book illustrator from the 1960s to the 1990s, he was known for drawing the pictures for books that Theodore LeSeig (Dr. Seuss) wrote.

From the New York Times:

Roy McKie was born in Medford, MA and attended Vesper George School of Art. While he was at Vesper George, he won the prestigious prize "Prix de Rome". Because of WWII, it wasn't possible for Roy to go to Rome for further study. Instead, Roy was given the privilege of attending the Louis Comfort Tiffany Foundation on Long Island, NY.  

Then Roy worked in a commercial art studio in Boston. He married his first wife, Lois, and they had two children. Roy worked at N.W. Ayer advertising in Philadelphia. There, among other jobs, Roy did some humorous drawings titled, "Never Underestimate the Power of a Woman" for the Ladies Home Journal. 

For a short time Roy lived and worked in London. One of the books that Roy illustrated in London was Melisande, with Marjorie Sharp, inspired by Julie Andrews and her dog, published in 1960. During that time, Roy was interviewed by the B.B.C. television. After his return, a divorce took place, and he moved to NYC where he freelanced.   

In 1963, at an art opening at the NY Society of Illustrators, Roy met June Reynard, an artist doing fashion, story illustration, and portraits. They married in 1964, shared an art studio, lived in Greenwich Village, and traveled throughout the world between jobs. 

Roy is survived by his wife, June Reynard McKie, and his children from his first marriage, Todd McKie(Judy Kensley McKie) and Sara McKie Coar (Lance). Additionally, Roy is survived by two grandsons, and two great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by three brothers, his first wife, Lois, and one grandson.

Memorial contributions in Roy's name can be made to the public library of your choice. A private memorial service will be held in the future.

NY Times Obituary
Paul Giambarba recalls his friend Roy McKie: 100 Years of Illustration
Roy McKie Recalls Collaboration with Dr. Seuss