ODESSA William Alton “Bill” Burney was born May 5, 1947, in Odessa, Texas to W.B. “Dub” and Alla Mae Burney. He grew up in Odessa graduating from Odessa High School in 1965 and Odessa College in 1967.
On August 4, 1967, Bill married Karen Jo McCafferty. Bill and Karen moved to Abilene where he completed his bachelor’s degree in education at Hardin-Simmons University. They enjoyed forty blessed years of family, teaching, and ministry together.
Bill joined the U.S. Marine Corps in October 1970, and served actively in the Corps until 1973, after which he continued in the Marine Reserves until 1978, retiring with the rank of Captain. Bill had a strong sense of patriotism, and was always proud to be a Marine — “Semper Fi.”
In 1975, in response to the Lord’s calling, Bill began teaching at Sherwood Christian Academy. Bill became principal of Sherwood Christian Academy in 1988. He continued in that role until his death, completing 32 years of educational ministry. Bill’s heart was devoted to SCA and he was very proud of its ministry.
Bill was an active member of Belmont Baptist Church where he served as a deacon, Sunday School Director, and in numerous other leadership/ministry roles. He served by his example of humility, enduring strength, and the sincere way he encouraged others with his genuine smile and handshake.
Faith in the Lord sustained Bill through a courageous five and a half year battle with multiple myeloma. He continued to lead and teach at Sherwood Christian Academy and worked with the Board of Directors to plan for the future growth and development of a dynamic ministry to the community. His vision will live on through the lives of Sherwood Christian’s children of yesterday, today, and tomorrow.
Bill has impacted the lives of countless people through the years. His contagious personality, ever present wit, and passion for life made him a person who touched the hearts of many people. Bill will be greatly missed.
Bill was a man of high integrity who put his Lord first and then his family. He loved to spend time with his children, laughing and sharing in their lives.
He is survived by his wife, Karen Burney of the home, his son and daughter-in-law Brian and April Burney of Odessa, his daughter and son-in-law Lisa and Bryan Chamness of Richardson, his sister and brother-in-law Lucretia and Herman Williamson of Grand Prairie, his mother-in-law JoAnne McCafferty of Odessa, his brother-in-law and sister-in-law Terry and Barbara McCafferty of Houston, numerous nieces and nephews, and many friends.
Family visitation is scheduled for Thursday, August 9, from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. at Hubbard Kelly Funeral Home. Bill’s home-going celebration will be at 2:00 p.m. Friday, August 10th, at Belmont Baptist Church in Odessa. Services will be led by Revs. John McLemore and Lenard Hartley. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to Sherwood Christian Academy, Belmont Baptist Church, or Odyssey HealthCare, Inc.