Alexander William Macklin IV, DVM PhD

Bill was born on November 28th, 1934, in Chicago, IL, to the late Alexander W. Macklin III and Dorothy Cummings Macklin. When he was nine years old, his family moved to their ancestral home in Frankfort, KY. He graduated from Frankfort High School, where he was president of the student body. Bill attended the University of Kentucky, and the highlight of his years there was rooting for the Kentucky Wildcats coached by the late Adolph Rupp. He then attended Auburn University School of Veterinary Medicine, graduating second in a class of 58.

Bill was awarded a fellowship to the University of Wisconsin, and received a PhD in Veterinary Pathology. He was a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association and a board-certified Veterinary Pathologist. Bill began his career at Burroughs Welcome in 1971 as a Senior Scientist and also served as an adjunct professor at N.C. State College of Veterinary Medicine.

Bill loved the Lord and was always willing to share his faith with others. Prior to a decline in health, he served as a deacon, small group leader, and a Stephen minister. He will be remembered for his deep love for the Lord, his family, and for the lasting impact he made on everyone who knew him.

Left to cherish his memory is Shirley, his wife, of 62 wonderful years; his sons, Alex (Kim) and Jonathan (Ocean); and his beloved grandchildren: Hailey and Hope, daughters of Jonathan and Ocean, and Ryan, son of Alex and Kim. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews who will remember him with love.

In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by his sisters, Susan Dunn and Ann Peel.

A Celebration of Bill’s life was held at 2:00 pm, Thursday, November 13th, 2025, at Providence Church, 6339 Glenwood Ave., Raleigh, NC. The family received friends for one hour prior to the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Samaritan’s Purse, by using the link below, under 'Donations'.

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