William Larry McKneely

William Larry McKneely, known affectionately as Pop Pop to his grandchildren and Larry to his family and friends, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on August 31, 2025, in Temple, Texas, at the age of 71. Born on April 6, 1954, in San Saba, Texas, to WC and Willena McKneely. Larry's life was a testament to his faith, kindness, and gentle spirit.

Larry graduated from Cherokee High School in 1972 and attended San Angelo State University for a semester before embarking on a career that would span several decades and touch many lives. He was a respected commercial turkey farmer for over 25 years and a dedicated rancher who took great pride in his work. Larry also spent 20 years in the service department at Ratliff Chevrolet and later worked at Granite Hills Chevrolet for 2 years. His commitment to his community was evident through his 47 years of service as a Deacon at Cherokee Baptist Church, where he was a pillar of strength and guidance for his congregation.

Marsha McKneely, Larry's beloved wife, was his constant source of love, strength, and companionship. Their life together was a true partnership, and on June 14, 2025, they were blessed to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary. He was a devoted father to his children, Jennifer Bordner and her husband Paul of Cherokee, and Michelle Buffe and her husband Landon of Indian Gap. Larry's joy was multiplied by his grandchildren, Kyler Bordner and fiancé Ethan Aguilar of San Angelo, Kase Bordner of Cherokee, and Sadie, Addie, Lanie, and Kylie Buffe of Indian Gap. He is survived by his siblings, Joann Brunson, Linda and Ken Shannon, Betty Jean Sutton, Patsy and Danny Pierce, Jake and Glenda McKneely, Nancy and Eddie Stevens, and brothers- in-law Robert and Sherry Box and Lonny and Penny Box, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Larry's interests were a reflection of his love for the outdoors and the simple pleasures of life. He found great joy in watching his grandchildren play sports, along with helping the officials call three seconds in the lane. An avid outdoorsman, Larry cherished his time spent ranching and hunting for deer, dove, and elk. When it was too hot outside, he passed his time watching John Wayne westerns and Hee Haw.

Those who knew Larry will remember him as a man of deep faith. He was saved in Christ at the age of 8, and his life was a living example of the Christian values he held dear. He inspired many with his unwavering commitment to his beliefs. Larry's kind and gentle demeanor was a comfort to all who had the privilege of knowing him.

As we bid farewell to Larry, we celebrate a life well-lived, full of love, faith, and service. His legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of those he touched. Larry McKneely's memory will be cherished and kept alive through the stories and memories shared by friends and family alike. He will be deeply missed, but the impact of his life's work and the love he shared will endure forever.