W illiam "Bill" Henry McConnell, Jr., a loving husband, father, and grandfather died on Friday, December 30, 2016, at the age of 77 at Houston Methodist Hospital.

Bill McConnell was born on February 27, 1939, in Houston, TX, the son of Ruby and William Henry McConnell.  He was a graduate of St. Thomas High School.  After attending Texas A&M and completing coursework at a technical trade school, Bill worked as a draftsman in the oil and gas industry for over 30 years.

Pa, as he was referred to by his family, was a gentle giant that his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren describe as kind, brilliant, patient, thoughtful, honest, dependable, principled, and witty.  He loved to fish, hunt, cook, travel, and attend sporting events played by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  As his various awards and trophies attest, Bill was a talented steel guitar player, bowler, bass fisherman, and football player in his youth.

Bill Mc Connell is survived by his wife of forty-one years, Elaine.  He is also survived by his sister, Frieda Ferrata; son, Tony Conway; son, Steve Welsh; daughter, Sheila Shook; son, Jeff Conway and his wife, Melissa; eight grandchildren; five great grandchildren; nephew, John Ferrata and wife, Robin; nephew, Paul Ferrata and wife, Nicole; niece, Charlotte Ferrata Toney and husband, Ronnie Toney; as well as 20 great nieces and great nephews.

We mourn the loss of a loyal husband, loving father and grandfather, and true friend to many, yet we rejoice in the knowledge that William "Bill" Mc Connell is now receiving his eternal reward.

Bill, you will be missed by many and never replaced or forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, please send memorial gifts in honor of Bill McConnell to: Glorious Way Church, 11611 Champion Forest Drive, Houston, TX 77066.