

William (Bill or BillyMac to family and friends) was born in Nashville, Tennessee on Oct.12, 1948, growing up as the oldest of 3 LIVELY brothers. His family was active in a local Baptist church but he was also blessed by the example of his grandfather, A.A. McClanahan, a dedicated pastor who modeled a life of service to the Lord.
Bill entered Vanderbilt University to pursue a degree in engineering but was led to change his major to premed, a decision confirmed by his success and his acceptance in medical school. He met and later married Susie Mann a nursing student in 1973 , before they graduated Vanderbilt in 1974. After 2 years at Duke University Hospital for his internship and residency in Internal Medicine, the couple moved to Surgoinsville, Tennessee. There Bill finished his residency at ETSU College of Medicine and served 2 years in the U.S.Public Health Service, experiencing a small town in need of doctors. After their first son, Patrick was born, the couple moved to Pell City, Ala. , where he established an active medical practice. Bill was passionate about providing quality medical care and credited the Lord with giving him the diagnostic skills and medical wisdom to serve others. Their second son Michael was born and the couple anchored at First Baptist Church , learning to serve in the community. Both were able to participate in some medical mission trips to Kenya which were so meaningful. After 43 years of intensive medical practice, Bill retired so he and Susie could move to Olympia, WA. to be near their sons’ families , especially with their grandchildren!
Even in retirement he was active at Timberline Baptist Church where he helped with the Buddy Ministry and visitation.
When he learned of his serious diagnosis , Bill was able to share that God had given him a lasting peace and he knew where he was going and was not afraid, passing on August 25, 2026.
He is survived by Susie, his wife of 53 years, son Patrick, Pat’s wife Stacy and grandson Drake and his son Michael, Mike’s wife Tandi and granddaughter,Blake, his brother Bob, Bob’s wife Susan and numerous nieces and nephews , great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents William and Thelma McClanahan and his brother Steve.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Samaritan’s Purse, Doctors Without Borders, Options Women’s Clinic, or Timberline Baptist Church.
DONATIONS
Samaritan's PurseP.O. Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607
Doctor's Without Borders40 Rector St, 16th Floor, New York, New York 10006
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