Mr. William C. McGinnis

Known affectionately as Bill or “Billy,” he was raised in Lansdowne, Pennsylvania just outside of Philadelphia with four brothers and three sisters, he was the fourth child. He graduated as valedictorian of Lansdowne-Aldan High School class of 1980, where he distinguished himself academically and athletically. An all-star soccer player, he also competed on the wrestling and tennis teams. Bill continued his education at Cornell University, earning a degree in engineering and playing on the university’s soccer team.

After graduation, Bill moved to San Diego and married Heather, his beloved wife of more than 35 years. Their life together was filled with love, adventure, and a shared appreciation for the world around them. They made homes in San Diego, Hawaii, Germany, and Virginia, creating treasured memories along the way.

Over a distinguished 40-year career, Bill specialized in environmental engineering, in various roles including civilian supervisor with the Department of Defense and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. A licensed Professional Engineer, he received numerous awards recognizing his leadership and professional contributions. Colleagues knew him as a thoughtful, kind, and humble leader who consistently placed the success of his team above personal recognition. He took particular pride in mentoring others, generously sharing his knowledge and encouraging their growth.

Above all, Bill will be remembered for his generous heart, warm smile, and devotion to the people he loved. Family was central to his life, and he always made time for both his and Heather’s families. His playful sense of humor earned him the affectionate title of “Funcle” among his nieces and nephews. Whether with relatives, friends, teammates, or colleagues, Bill made those around him feel welcome and valued.

Bill and Heather shared a deep love of nature and the outdoors. They were happiest hiking in the mountains, snorkeling in the ocean, strolling along a beach, or pausing together to admire a sunset. These simple joys reflected Bill’s appreciation for life and the beauty he found in everyday moments.

Bill was preceded in death by his father, James McGinnis, his older sister Joanne Jungbark and his younger brother Stephen McGinnis. He is survived by his loving wife, Heather McGinnis; his mother, Mary McGinnis; his brothers Butch, Edward, Mark; his sisters Katherine and Susan; his brother-in-law Lennart Jungbark; his father-in-law, Lawrence Wood and mother-in-law Marcella Wood; brothers-in-law, Brett Wood, Jason Wood, and Keegan Wood; and all of their loving families.

A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at Woody Funeral Home, 1771 N. Parham Road, Richmond, Virginia. A social gathering for family and friends will follow at the same location.

In lieu of flowers, we welcome green plants in Bill’s memory or contributions toward a memorial park bench honoring his love of the outdoors by visiting https://www.gofundme.com/f/memorial-bench-for-william-mcginnis The park location for this special bench will be announced at a later date. For more details regarding Bill’s ceremony please visit the Woody Funeral Home website at https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/richmond-va/william-mcginnis-13066667.

Bill’s family is deeply grateful for the love, support, thoughts, and prayers shared throughout his illness and during this time of loss. His kindness, quiet strength, and joy in the company of those he loved will be remembered always. We will miss you and love you, Billy.