Deacon Billy McFarland was born in Albany, Georgia on July 28, 1958, to Deacon Johnny McFarland and the late Bernice Fields McFarland.

He attended the public schools of Dougherty County and later received his GED in Lexington, Kentucky.  He gained valuable technical and industrial skills at the Whitney M. Young Job Corp Center that  were great assets  in later years.

A man of faith and belief in God, Billy was baptized in 2009 at Palmyra Baptist Church  and served faithfully under the leadership of Pastor Thomas A. Rivers.  As his love for God and the church strengthened, he committed himself unfalteringly  in service as a Deacon under the guidance of Pastor Chucky Mathis.

Over the years, he was steadfast and unmovable—always giving God the glory and praise.

Deacon McFarland was a highly skilled individual whose work experiences included employment at Miller Brewing Company and at Harvey Well Drilling  where he labored untiringly as a commercial pipe layer.   Throughout his career, he never shied away from a challenge and tackled each task with equal measure.  He was a loyal, dedicated employee  who was totally committed to his jobs and always provided superior service.

Often described as a selfless individual, Deacon McFarland's heart was filled with compassion , care, and love.  The relationships that he forged through the years nourished his soul.  He was a deeply loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, complete family man, good neighbor, loyal friend, and a genuinely kind-hearted individual who touched the lives of many.   He will be remembered for his love for family and friends, and his tireless support of others.  His life was truly a light that will forever shine brightly.

On April 5, 2023, Deacon McFarland transitioned from this earthly life to eternal life with the Lord.  In addition to his mother, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Gregory and Dennis McFarland; a sister-in-law, Gloria McFarland; and one brother-in-law, Larry Willis.

Precious memories will forever be cherished by his beloved wife of 35 years, Linda W. McFarland; his sons, Ernest L. (Catina) Williams, Artavius O. (Erica) Williams, and Jason Strum; his father, Deacon Johnny McFarland; siblings, Elvis McFarland, Amos McFarland, Johnny (Shawta) McFarland, and Christine McFarland; aunts, Carolyn Shelton, Vivian Mallory, and Deborah Johnson; two sisters-in-law, Tammy Jackson and Lutricia McFarland; mother-in-law, Clara Mae Willis; grandchildren and great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends.