Willie Marvin McKay Jr.

Willie Marvin McKay Jr., of Florence, SC, passed away peacefully on August 2, 2025, surrounded by his loving family after a life rich in adventure, purpose, and love.

Born and raised in Timmonsville and Florence, he was the son of the late Willie Marvin McKay and Annie Gee McKay. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Walt McKay.

Willie joined the U.S. Navy shortly after high school. Known for his intelligence and character, he was once considered for the honor of guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier but was ultimately told no since he had already signed up for submarine duty. It was on the sub where he formed lifelong friendships and collected unforgettable stories. One of the family’s favorites being his decision to go skydiving at port, after which he’d jokingly say, “We couldn’t figure out why we jumped from a perfectly good plane.” Several of the guys were supposed to go but only two showed up including him. We still laugh about it.

After his service, Willie hitchhiked across Australia, explored new possibilities and even applied to the LAPD—unknowingly parking his hearse in the chief's spot during the interview because he said that was the best parking spot. That misstep eventually led him back to Florence, where he enrolled at Francis Marion College and began work at the McLeod Respiratory department thanks to his brother Walt. There, he met the love of his life, Laura, whom he later married. He often said she was the best thing that ever happened to him.

Willie and Laura built a life filled with love, laughter, and purpose. Together they raised two daughters, who were the lights of his life. He worked tirelessly to provide for his family—teaching at Southside Middle School by day and delivering newspapers by night. A gifted self-taught computer expert, he also built websites for Florence County and McLeod Hospital while maintaining a full-time teaching career. They never realized he was a one-man team.

Willie’s entrepreneurial spirit was unmatched—he co-created a childproof gun lock box, opened a movie theater in Bishopville, opened a detective agency and tutoring business, and even bought and sold land in Nova Scotia. He later taught at the Turbeville state prison and served as principal of a local charter school before officially retiring to spend more time with family.

He was a devoted grandfather who loved gardening, camping, cooking over a fire, and movie nights with his oldest grandson complete with wings and soda. He cherished visits with his granddaughter in Virginia and time spent with his grandchildren planting and watering his fruit trees in the backyard. He was a teacher in and out of the classroom. All his grandchildren adored him and thought he hung the moon.

Willie is survived by his beloved wife of 46 years, Laura McKay; his daughters, Heather Willis (Ray) of Florence, and Brooke Benatzky (Carlos) of Virginia; five grandchildren: Madison, North, McKay, Miller, and Willow.

He is survived by his brother, Mark McKay (Betsy) who was not only his baby brother but his best friend. They were quite the pair, and nothing was sweeter than hearing them laugh together which they did a lot. He leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and in-laws whom he loved dearly.

He was known for his unconditional love, deep wisdom, humility, and quick wit. He was rarely seen without a good cup of coffee in hand. Willie often said, “If I died today, I’d die the happiest man in the world.” In his final days, he expressed having no regrets—only gratitude for a life well lived and pride for the family he helped create.

He leaves behind a legacy of unconditional love, laughter, and character that will continue through the generations he inspired.

A private service will be held with family.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Willie by spending time with those you love and sharing a good story, humor not needed but always appreciated. Don’t forget the coffee.

He will be missed deeply.