This online memorial was created in deepest love and gratitude for our Joey McConkey; Son, Brother, Grandson, Nephew, Uncle, Cousin, and Friend. While with us for far too short a time, the impact Joey made on each of us will live on always. This memorial is a walk through some of the memories we will forever cherish. Please visit often and sign Joey's guest book to share a message, a thought or a memory.. We believe Joey would really have liked this special way to visit and remember. We miss you Joey! Your love is forever with us as our hearts will always be with you, "Side By Side".

We will forever remember you Joey for your zany sense of humor and the way you liked to cut up with us--always the liveliest in the room. We especially remember your million-dollar smile... People from all over, young and old, share with us how much you touched their lives and warmed their hearts with your simple acts of kindness and your beautiful smile.

You're also remembered for how picky you were about your clothes... and how exhausting it was to shop with you... never a hair out of place... and always prepared to make your best first impression. At 6'4", you were striking and EVERYONE noticed you. Your white PONY shoes were a hit when spoken of during your memorial service...(giggles) We can envision you, once our Prodigal Son but now a Perfect Son, clothed in your perfect robe, with your perfect ring, and your perfect shoes... the gifts from your Father in Heaven.

Remembering Joey as a child: Always energetic and so full of life... Always a step ahead of us... Always ready with a witty response... Always passionate & making plans... Always expecting nothing less than the best... Always laughing and having fun... Always leaving footprints on the carpets, and in our hearts... Always our Joey!

How two brothers can be so different is truly amazing! But one thing was constant--the bond two brothers share. Though all grown up and living your own lives, you were always there for each other in a pinch. No parents could be more proud as your dad and I are of the both of you. Joey, through many memories shared, though many dreams interrupted, you will forever be loved, never forgotten by your brother Patrick. Though you are in Heaven, you will remain his "Best Man" here. Oh Yeah! And remember that $11 he loaned you? ...j/k

Joey graduated from Monticello High School in Central Illinois, and earned his Associates Degree in Agricultural Sciences from Parkland College in Champaign. Joey was in his junior year at Illinois State University in the Agricultural Business program. He dreamed of attending graduate school at Purdue University after his 2007 graduation and hoped to intern with the Chicago Board of Trade. Joey excelled academically with honors-level grades. Joey loved college life, and the girls... and everyone loved Joey.

While growing up Joey played soccer, baseball, football, basketball, and softball. He rode three and four-wheel ATV's, hunted deer with his dad, and loved his precious horses. He just loved sports of all kinds, and always enjoyed being outdoors and near water. Just weeks before journeying onward, Joey had an awesome water skiing adventure with his friends. Joey also loved to go fishing. Many lazy summer afternoons during Joey's teen years were spent at the river fishing with his friends. During a summer internship in Michigan, Joey 's boss took him fishing on Lake Eerie. He was so excited. All sun & smiles with his prize catch!

Whether it was the sun, the sand, the surf of crashing waves, or the sights and sounds of people playing, Joey always loved being at the beach. He enjoyed shooting off fireworks at night, visiting different piers, checking out the early winds of hurricane season, walking along the shore, swimming, boating, snorkeling, boarding, and eating fresh crab prepared any way. When at the beach with his friends, there was always a party. Here he was just hangin' with mom, catching some rays on the day of his infamous side-by-side swim with Michael.

Joey's childhood home at McConkey Country is where he and his dad raised horses ever since Joey was a young child. Joey spent his last summer there, working alongside his dad. Joey was especially proud of the newest addition to the farm, a stud horse named Walt. Joey's ashes were set free in his favorite pasture while the horses looked on. Weeks later, five of Joey's closest friends came to McConkey Country and helped Joey's dad and step-brother raise a new horse barn in Joey's honor. McConkey Country will forever love you, Joey...

You brought depth to our lives, Joey, and you taught us so much; the true meaning of being a free spirit, how to laugh, how to cry, how to roll with it, how to be more patient, how to really pray, and most of all how to love unconditionally... God blessed our lives and the world when he made you. We will forever love and cherish you Joey for all that you were and all that you will infinitely be in our hearts and lives. Thank you so much for choosing us, loving us, and being our Joey...

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During the summer that Joey turned 21 he received Jesus Christ as his personal Lord & Savior. His road was bumpy as Joey journeyed along to discover his way. But one thing we know for certain; it's that Joey is now and forever in the company of the Host of Angels. We love you, Joey. We miss you. And we treasure the roads we traveled with you.

So long Joey... until we meet again.