William Louis Vann

William Louis Vann, a cherished family man, a beacon of humor, and a lover of life's simplest pleasures, passed away on September 19, 2025, in McKinney, TX. Born on December 15, 1940, in Alto, TX, William's journey was one marked by the joy he found in the everyday and the love he held for those around him.
William, known affectionately as William to those who knew him best, was a devoted husband to his late wife, Katie Vann, who was the love of his life for 59 years. He was the steadfast son of Bert and Louise Vann, a caring brother to Joe Vann, and a proud descendant of his grandmother Vera Quinn. His family tree branched out with the lives he helped nurture, including his son, Bill Vann, and his wife Martha; his daughter, Karen Garland; his beloved grandchildren, Britney Vann, William Louis Vann, Jr., II, Katie Vann, Kris Garland and his wife Sara, Kayla Bell and her husband Joe; and his adoring great-grandchildren, Katherine Garland, Scarlett Garland, Audrey Garland, Sierra Belcher, Victoria Hernandez, and Annette Hernandez. William was also a supportive brother to Gary Waley and Betty Vann. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, his grandmother, and his son-in-law, Ken Garland. Professionally, William was a supervisor at a steel foundry, where he was known for his strong work ethic and his ability to lead with both respect and kindness. His colleagues respected him for his integrity and his unwavering dedication to his work. In his personal life, William's interests were varied and rich. He was a man who loved all animals, finding joy in the companionship and wonder they brought into his life. A fan of westerns, he could often be found engrossed in tales of cowboys and the old frontier, perhaps seeing a bit of himself in their adventurous spirits. William was an avid coon hunter, a hobby that allowed him to spend time in nature, which he cherished deeply. William's sense of humor was legendary; he had a knack for finding the funny in the mundane and could lift the spirits of a room with just a few words. His ability to "fix" things extended beyond the literal; he was the family's "go-to man" for everything from mending a broken toy to healing a broken heart. As handy as he was with tools, he was equally adept at crafting a sense of security and comfort for those he loved. Above all, William's true passion lay in the time spent with his family. His children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were the stars in his sky, and nothing brought him greater happiness than being in their presence. The legacy he leaves behind is one of unwavering love, boundless generosity, and the gentle strength that defined his character. William Louis Vann lived a life rich in experiences and abundant in love. As we say goodbye to a man who was so much to so many, we take comfort in knowing that his spirit will continue to guide and inspire us. Though he has left this earth, the memories he created, the laughter he shared, and the love he gave will forever be etched in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.
"For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first and also to the Greek."
Romans 1:16