Obituary for William M. McKinney
August 29, 1934 – June 1, 2025
With profound love and deep sorrow, we announce the passing of William M. McKinney, age 90, of Clearwater, Florida, who peacefully departed this life on June 1st, 2025, at Suncoast Hospice.
Born on August 29th, 1934, in Brooklyn, New York, William was the beloved son of the late William J. McKinney and Theresa Smith. A proud Navy veteran who served during the Korean War, William dedicated his life to the service of others. He was a member of the FDNY—New York City’s Bravest—for 37 years, serving as both a firefighter and a fire marshal with courage, integrity, and unwavering dedication.
On April 17th, 1955, William married the love of his life, Marie Piccolo. Their enduring union of 62 years was a testament to love, partnership, and family. Together they raised a family rooted in strength, compassion, and faith, first in Brooklyn and later in Valley Stream, Long Island.
William’s memory will be forever cherished by his loving sister Marguerite and brother in law Victor; his sister in law Fannie; his children, Diane, Kathleen, and Daniel; his daughter in law Claudine; his Son in Laws John C. and Andrew; his grandchildren, Kristine and her fiance Craig, John W. and his wife Melisa, Jesse, Megan, Kayla, Connor, Sean, and William J.; and grandson in law Craig; and his great-grandchildren, John S. and Reagan.
He is reunited in eternal rest with his beloved wife Marie and his son William C., who preceded him in death.
A man of deep faith and community, William was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus and the Association of Uniformed Firefighters. His legacy is one of strength, service, humility, and love—a life well-lived and deeply appreciated by all who knew him.
A service to honor William’s life will be held on Friday, June 27th, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Veterans Funeral Care, located at 830 North Belcher Road, Clearwater, Florida 33765. A burial will follow at Sylvan Abbey Cemetery at 1:30 PM.
Though his presence will be greatly missed, William’s spirit lives on in the family he adored, the community he served, and the lives he touched with his kindness and courage.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Tunnel To Towers Foundation at T2T.org
“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” – John 15:13
