William Mackey

William Earl Mackey, 77, of Russellville, Arkansas, passed away Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at St. Mary's Regional Medical Center in Russellville. Born January 19, 1948, in Gravel Hill, Arkansas, he was the son of James and Hallie Elese Bowden Mackey.

He married the love of his life, Betty F. Mackey, on July 14, 1967, in Russellville. A devoted husband, loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, William lived a life rooted in faith, service, and love. He was a proud veteran of the United States Army and served his country honorably during the Vietnam War, where he was awarded the Purple Heart. Following his military service, he worked as a postal clerk and remained active in veterans' organizations, including Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2283 and the Disabled American Veterans (DAV).

William was a faithful member of Gravel Hill Church of Christ, where he worshipped and served his community. His life reflected his Christian values through his dedication to family and his generous spirit. He enjoyed golf, camping, board games, and playing cards – always cherishing time spent with loved ones.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, William Eric "Bubba" Mackey; and his sister, Earlene Duvall.

Survivors include his wife, Betty Mackey of Russellville; a daughter, Pam Wilcox and husband Mark of Russellville; two grandsons, Ryan Paul and wife Devin of Hector, and Brayden Paul and wife Mamie of Delaware; a granddaughter, Markelle Fry and husband Chris of Marble Falls, Texas; six great-grandsons, Caulder Paul, Jayce Paul, Greyson Paul, Daxton Paul Tucker Fry and Logan Fry; four great-granddaughters, Bethany Fry, Mallory Fry, Skylar Goodman, and Raylyn Goodman; a sister, Lucille Hale and husband Bill of Dover; a brother, James Mackey and wife Lynn of Pottsville; sisters-in-law, Sue May of Pottsville and Jan Hill of Little Rock; and many other relatives and friends who will miss him dearly.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at Humphrey Chapel with Rev. Bobby Freeman officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service, beginning at 10 a.m., at the funeral home. A private committal will be held at the Chapel of Light in the J. Herman Humphrey Dignity Cremation Center under the direction of Humphrey Funeral Service. Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association, 909 West Second Street, Little Rock, AR 72203, or to Gravel Hill Church of Christ, 236 Hollis Lane, Russellville, AR 72802. Online condolences may be made at www.humphreyfuneral.com.