Peter Joseph McKone

Peter Joseph McKone, a devoted family man and accomplished businessman, passed away peacefully on February 22, 2026, in Fort Worth, Texas. He was 99 years old.

Peter was born on October 28, 1926, in East Greenwich, Rhode Island, to Leo T. and Grace C. McKone. Growing up in a close-knit family with his brothers Leo C., Jack, Ray, and Tom, and under the guidance of his uncles, Rev. John Ells, Rev. Peter McKone and Rev. Raymond McKone, Peter embraced the values of faith, hard work, and perseverance from an early age—qualities that shaped his life. At just 19, he built his uncle, Rev. John Ells, a summer home, Ellsmere, a testament to his determination and skill. Peter served his country with honor in the US Army Air Corps during a pivotal time in history.

After earning a degree in Marketing from the University of Rhode Island, Peter embarked on a remarkable career that would take him across the country and leave a lasting mark on the advertising industry. Early in his career, Peter began as an advertising professional for Leonard's Department Store. His talent and vision quickly propelled him forward as he took on leadership roles in newspaper advertising departments across Texas and Massachusetts. He eventually joined Holmes & Associates, a local Fort Worth advertising firm, where he honed his skills and expanded his influence. With unwavering ambition and entrepreneurial spirit, Peter purchased Holmes & Associates and transformed it into McKone and Company— an international leader in advertising, public relations, and relationship marketing.

Peter’s success in business was exceeded only by his devotion to his family. He shared a loving marriage with his wife, Marcella McKone, until her passing. Together they raised ten children: Rev. Jack McKone; Colleen Cargile and husband Robert; Mark McKone and wife Carol; Andrea Vernon; Donna Chesshir and husband Don; Chris McKone and wife Pam; Elisa Weber; Tom McKone and wife Sally; Pete McKone and wife Sharon; and Chuck McKone. Peter cherished each of them deeply. He was also blessed with 13 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren, who brought immense joy to his life. Whether it was Christmas Day with the entire family or weekly Sunday dinners around the large dining room table he built, his home was always full, and friends were always welcome.

Despite the demands of his career, Peter continued to seek growth and adventure. At the age of 63, he earned his pilot’s license—a testament to his lifelong curiosity and determination to embrace new challenges. Peter also enjoyed baseball from an early age, a passion reflected in his steadfast devotion to the Boston Red Sox and in the many years he spent coaching and playing softball with his family and church community. In retirement, he spent many Februarys with family in Elua Village, Wailea, Maui, a place he always hoped to visit “one more time.” A devout Catholic throughout his life, Peter’s faith played a central role in shaping his worldview. His commitment to his beliefs provided him with strength during difficult times and guided him as he navigated life’s many opportunities.

Throughout his life, Peter supported countless individuals and charitable causes, including refugees resettling in the area, foreign exchange students, the bell choir at St. Rita’s, and the St. John the Apostle food pantry, among many others.

Peter’s journey is one of resilience and triumph. Arriving in Fort Worth with just $25 to his name after stepping off a bus decades ago, he built a legacy defined by hard work, integrity, love for family, and steadfast faith.

He is predeceased by his parents, Leo T. and Grace McKone; beloved wife, Marcella (Hajek) McKone; and his brothers. His memory will live on through those who knew him best—his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren—and all who were inspired by his remarkable life. When once asked in a magazine interview what he wanted people to know about him, Peter replied, “I did a good job. I did the best I could. And I loved every minute of it.”

May Peter Joseph McKone’s enduring legacy bring comfort to those who loved him as they celebrate the extraordinary life he lived. 

A Vigil service will be held on Thursday, March 5 from 6:00–8:00 PM, and the Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, March 6, 2026, at 11:00 AM at St. Rita’s Catholic Church, 5550 E. Lancaster Avenue. The Rite of Committal will follow at Rose Hill Memorial Park. Celebrants Rev. Bishop Michael Olsen and Rev. Jack McKone will preside. I

n Peter’s memory, donations for the St. John the Apostle food pantry and St. Rita’s school are welcome.