Celebration of Life for William Clyde McKay, a resident of New Smyrna Beach for nearly 30 years, passed away on Thursday, February 26, 2009 will be 4:00PM Tuesday, March 3 at Baldwin Brothers Funeral Chapel North Causeway. He joins his late wife Neva Cole, to whom he was married 60 years. Bill was 91 years old and will be remembered by his helpful nature, twinkling blue eyes, and always wearing a smile on his face.
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Bill was born in Flint, Michigan and graduated from the University of Michigan in 1940 with a degree in naval architecture and marine engineering. He came to Washington, D.C., to work for the maritime administration. He also met his wife, Neva Maxine Cole, from Tekoa, Washington, whom he married in1943. As an early expert in the field of plastics, his career evolved into corporate management for the companies of Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing, Brunswick Defense Division, and Owens Yachts, respectively. A man of many skills, he built his first family home in Annandale, Virginia all by himself without a single power tool, including the plumbing and wiring. The home contained handcrafted built-in furniture and unique modern designs reminiscent of a Frank Lloyd Wright Usonian home.
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Neva and Bill first retired to South Padre Island, Texas, where he built homes and sold real estate. After hearing about the beautiful and unique town of New Smyrna Beach, Florida, they took up residence at the Country Club Chalets, where they spent the rest of their lives. Bill was actively involved in the Habitat for Humanity, also serving as director. He was a foreman in the construction of the Mantee Playground at Riverside Park and for many years he volunteered in managing the Country Club Chalets. They were both avid bridge players and enjoyed square dancing and sailing. Over the years they traveled together throughout the world on Elderhostel trips, visiting China, Egypt, and Canada. They also enjoyed visiting Mexico and Costa Rica.
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Bill is survived by (Janie) Jane McKay Marvin, her husband Tommy Marvin, Betty McKay Bracht, her husband John Bracht, and (Bill) William Cole McKay. His grandchildren are Rob Sheeran and wife, Sarah Marcinko, Billy Sheeran, Kristin Bracht Andrione, her husband Tony and son Will (Bill’s great grandson), Sarah Bracht and Jay Bracht. One of five children, he is also survived by sisters Maxine Franks of Warren, Ohio and Betty Lee MacGregor of Tampa, Florida.
Memorials are requested to Habitat for Humanity P O Box 2720 New Smyrna Beach FL 32170.
Celebration of Life will be 4:00 PM Tuesday, March 3 at Baldwin Brothers Memorial Chapel 1 North Causeway New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169 (map/driving directions)
Cremation arrangements under the direction of Baldwin Brothers Cremation Service.
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