We rejoice that William Nelson McKinney, age 91, entered the presence of his Lord and Savior,

Jesus Christ, on February 2, 2026.

Born on October 26, 1934, in Brownwood, Texas, Nelson was the middle child of Tom and

Thelma McKinney. As a high school student, he professed Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior,

beginning a lifelong walk of faith that shaped every chapter of his life. He was a football

player in high school, as well as an avid runner. On a regular basis, he ran several times a

week, always trying to beat his last time, until the age of 85. Nelson proudly served his country

as a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Air Force before beginning a successful career in the

computer industry, including his early years as a salesman for IBM.

For more than 50 years, Nelson joyfully served the local church as a Sunday School teacher, deacon,

and choir member. His greatest passion, however, was sharing the gospel. Whether on a business trip,

an airplane, a mission field, across the fence with a neighbor, or in a booth at the State Fair of Texas,

Nelson never missed an opportunity to speak of Christ.

Nelson met the love of his life, Barbara Ann Burns, at Baylor University, where they both graduated

(1956, 1957). A devoted Baylor Bear through and through-Sic 'em Bears!-he and Barbara eloped on

February 16, 1957. Together they raised two children:

- William Nelson McKinney, Jr., married to Sue Anne Vandergriff

- Pamela Ann Cameron, married to Kurt David Cameron

Nelson delighted in his six grandchildren: Kristen McKinney Gohean, Patrick Nelson McKinney, Cara

Cameron Featherstone, Caleb David Cameron, Tamera McKinney Walters, and Jenna Cameron Richter.

"Grandad" was further blessed with 23 great‑grandchildren, each one cherished. He is also survived

by his younger sister, Betty Northen, and her family.

Visitation will be held from 5:30-7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, February 11, at Colonial Funeral Home in Irving.

A memorial service celebrating Nelson's life will take place at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, February 12, at

MacArthur Blvd Baptist Church in Irving. Graveside interment will follow at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, February 16,

at DFW National Cemetery, 2000 Mountain Creek Pkwy, Dallas, Texas.

For those who wish to go to the cemetery to honor William please line up in lane 1 by 12:45pm  on Monday February 16, 2026

I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:14