Support McKinley's Family After Tragic Loss

Like so many teenagers, McKinley Williams had dreams. He was working hard and saving money to get his own apartment, after which he planned to attend Bates to study and become a mechanic. He planned to travel, California being one of his first stops, with a required run through In’N’Out Burger and then off to the beach to soak in the salty Pacific. He planned to make music, which he was already working on with his older brother. But we’re getting a little ahead of ourselves here.

Nineteen years ago, McKinley was born to a loving family, already well on their way to a full house. It seems that he was born to make people smile, constantly making others laugh and requiring regular snuggles. His soul seemed to glow, always the compassionate mediator should there be a bit of strife around the house and forever willing to help anyone in need.

When most kids his age wanted to be out running around and were trying to fit in with others, he preferred to be at home, following his own path (unless one of his brothers had an outlandish idea, then he was all in.) He adored animals and had a pet crow as a child and he was sure other crows were hanging outside, waiting for him to get out of school to visit. He even spent hour upon hour assisting in the family cat’s delivery, aiding her when she became distressed, after which he was allowed to keep one of the babies, his love, Bookah.

Always quick to encourage others, he would remind his family and friends that “you miss 100% of the chances you don’t take.” He truly loved nature, going skiing, hiking, or visiting one of the many bodies of water we are fortunate to have here, but don’t sleep on his Xbox game, he was ferocious. He loved cars and driving, drawing, swimming, running marathons, anime, performing home concerts with his siblings, playing ridiculously loud music and freestyling, and had a terrible habit of biting his nails.

And on the night of February 4, 2025, McKinley was robbed of the rest of his life, was stolen from his family and friends, and was the victim of the gun violence plaguing our country and stealing our children. This GoFundMe will go to his mother, to assist in final affairs and whatever else she sees fit. I hope you will join me in contributing. Truly, every dollar helps.