PLUM BRANCH, SC - William Claude (Billy) McKinney beloved husband, father and Poppa entered into rest on Tuesday, January 11, 2022 at the Medical University of South Carolina after an extended illness.  Just like he dealt with all experiences in life, Billy managed his illness with courage and grace.

Billy is survived by his wife Susan Bussey McKinney of the home, daughter Ashley McKinney (David) Harper of McCormick, SC, and son Jason William (Kelsey) McKinney of Orlando, Florida, four grandchildren, Noah David, Reese Alexander, Addison Elizabeth Harper, and Everett William McKinney, sister Florence (Bud) McKinney Cronin, Columbia, SC.  Nieces Lisa McKinney Crawford, Greenwood, SC, Regan Cronin Muckenfuss, Columbia, SC, nephews Ryan Cronin, Columbia, SC and Mark McKinney, Greer, SC.

He was predeceased by his mother and father, James Robert and Katherine White McKinney, brother, Robert Franklin McKinney, grandparents William M. and Lillie Mae McKinney and Claude and Pearl White.

His constant companion and much-loved dog, Rocky, was always by his side.

Billy was born in McCormick on June 5, 1953 and a life-long resident of McCormick Co. He was an avid outdoorsman and loved nature.  In his spare time, he enjoyed golfing, fishing, listening to the golden oldies and cheering for the Clemson Tigers. He was a member of Plum Branch Baptist Church, served as Chairman of the Board of Long Cane Academy for many years and a member of the SC Forestry Commission.  Billy was co-owner of McKinney Timber Company where he worked for thirty years.  He retired from the timber industry in 2019.

Billy never met a stranger and loved nothing more than telling stories and jokes.  He loved to laugh.  His pride and joy were his children and especially his grandchildren whom he loved with all his heart

The family would like to express heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and doctors at MUSC for their kindness and extraordinary care.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, January 15, 2022 at 11:00 a.m., Plum Branch Cemetery, Plum Branch, SC with the Reverend Doug Kauffmann officiating.  The family will receive friends after the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Humane Society of McCormick County, PO Box 900, McCormick, SC 29845.

The family is at the residence 2665 Upper Mill Road, Plum Branch SC.

You may sign the family's online guestbook at: www.reesfuneralhome.net

Rees Funeral Home, 195 North Peachtree Street, Lincolnton, Georgia 706-359-3222 is in care of the arrangements for the McKinney family.