William graduated with an associate's degree from Troy State. He joined the US Army and was a part of the 43rd Engineers, retiring as a Sergeant First Class after 27 years of dedicated service.
He was married to the love of his life, Betty Jo, for 26 years until her passing. He is survived by his children, Diana Holley, Debra Morrison (Donnie), William Beyer (Robert), Rosanna Smith (Jamey), Patricia Simmons, Mary Watley (Frankie), Katherine Rose (Byron), his brothers, Tim McCoy (Sherry) and Kenneth McCoy (Botchie), and his sisters, Betty Lou Timmons (Bobby) and Barbara Christian, as well as 14 grandchildren, 33 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, Margaret and William Henry, his wife, Betty Jo, his son, Kenneth Edward, his stepdad, Amizah, his sister, Sue, his brothers, Poncho and William (Chipper), and his granddaughter, Tiffany.
William was passionate about coaching little league baseball and coached a traveling basketball team for Fort Benning for many years. He was also committed to training and teaching the basic leadership courses at Fort Benning for 10 years. He loved Christmas time and adored his dog, LuLu, whom he treasured. He had a great love for his children and grandchildren.
A Visitation will be held at Parkhill Cemetery, located at 4161 Macon Rd, Columbus, GA, on February 26, 2026, starting at 2:00 pm. Following the visitation, a Graveside Service will take place at the same location at 3:00 pm.