William Lee “Billy” McKinney, age 81 of Bowling Green, KY, formerly of Hardyville, KY passed away Sunday, February 8, 2026 at Norton’s Hospital in Louisville. He was a native of Hart County and a member of Living Hope Baptist Church and formerly a member of Hardyville Baptist Church. He was a life long farmer also working at R.R. Donnely’s, Schwan’s, and National Seating. He enjoyed University of Kentucky basketball, watching westerns, and playing golf. He was a wonderful husband, loving father, and caring “Poppy” to his grandkids and great-grandkids.

He is the son of the late Herbert Lee McKinney and the late Verda Whitlow McKinney.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Paulette Hay McKinney, Bowling Green, KY; two children, Cindy Williams (Larry), Lexington, KY, and Lee McKinney (Becca), Bowling Green, KY; five grandchildren, Chelsea Sweet Sutherland (Brett), Megan McKinney (Chris Keith), Josh McKinney (Julia), Nathan Williams, and Hunter Williams; five great-grandchildren, Ryland McKinney, Adalynne Clayton, Josephine Clayton, Cade Keith, and Cole Keith.

The family will welcome friends from 4:00- 7:00 PM CT on Sunday, February 15, 2026 and again from 10:00 AM- 1:00 PM CT on Monday, February 16, 2026 at Brooks Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM CT on Monday, February 16, 2026 at Brooks Funeral Home with Bro. Dan Smith officiating. Burial will follow in Horse Cave Municipal Cemetery.

Condolences may be expressed online at www.brooksfuneralhomeky.com