William "Billy" McLean Sr.

William A. “Billy” McLean, Sr., aged 87, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Monday, April 1, 2024.  He was born on September 26, 1936, in Huntington Park, California, to William James and Lillian Janet Elsden McLean.  He was preceded in death by his parents.

Billy was a 32nd Degree Mason and a veteran who served in the Army National Guard.  He was a graduate of the Southern Methodist University Perkins School of Theology.  Early in his career he was a pastor in several churches in Arkansas, namely the Methodist Denomination.  He then worked for and retired from the Arkansas Department of Correction.  In his spare time, Billy enjoyed gardening and working in his yard.  Another of his passions was assisting his son with raising and showing English Budgies at state and regional bird shows.  Most importantly, Billy had a strong Christian faith that he lovingly and unashamedly shared with others.

He is survived by his loving wife, Deanna McLean; children Billy McLean, Jr. (Terry), Jim McLean (Elwen), Joy Cantrell (Clint), and John McLean (Gina); stepchildren Margaret Reed (Doug) and Michael Marus (Conni); seven grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held Friday April 5^th, 2024, at 10:00 am at Memorial Gardens in Hot Springs, Arkansas, under the direction of Smith Family Funeral Home.  A visitation will be at 9:30 am prior to the service at the funeral home. Reverend Jonathan McEntire of Lake Hills Free Will Baptist Church will officiate.

Honorary Pallbearers are the Arkansas Department of Correction.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be sent to Lake Hills Free Will Baptist Church, 2344 Airport Road, Hot Springs, Arkansas 71913.