William Boyd, Jr.

US Navy Veteran | Faithful Servant | Beloved Deacon

In Detroit, Michigan, on the 17th of December, 1949, William Boyd, Jr. was born. With a generous heart, a naturally determined spirit, and an unwavering faith that guided him throughout his life's journey, he embarked on a life imbued with high achievement and deep purpose.

Grandson of Englishman Sam "Conky Joe" Wells and Bahamian-born Elizabeth (Smith) Wells and son of William Boyd, Sr. and Pearline (Wells) Boyd, William was profoundly proud of his family heritage and history.

Affectionately known to friends and colleagues as "Will", to youths and mentees as "Mr. Will", and to his loving Mother as "Junebug", William was raised in Miami, Florida, and was a proud graduate of Miami Northwestern Senior High School's class of 1967.

William not only excelled in his studies but also shone brightly on the football field, proudly wearing Jersey #39 for the Bulls during the 1966 and 1967 seasons. His love for the game stayed with him always—his loyalty never faltering for his beloved University of Miami Hurricanes and his cherished Dallas Cowboys.

After high school, William answered the call to serve his country and joined the United States Navy in 1969. His years in the Navy instilled in him a deep sense of discipline, honor, and duty—values he carried forward into every aspect of his life.

Following his military service, William built a remarkable career with Miami-Dade Transit, dedicating 33 years of hard work and commitment to keeping his community moving safely and reliably each day.

November 17, 1994, marked a defining moment in William's life and legacy as he was elevated as a Master Freemason within Miami's esteemed Challenger Lodge #001. He carried his role within this sacred brotherhood with great honor, reverence, and pride every day of his life.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, William's life was defined by his steadfast devotion to his faith and his community. When New Birth Missionary Baptist Church was first organized, he joined as a founding member, receiving baptism under the leadership of Bishop Victor T. Curry at Miami Northwestern Senior High School—a full-circle moment at the very place where he once studied and played football. William faithfully served in the Usher Ministry, greeting all with warmth and kindness until the congregation moved into its permanent home.

In 1998, William united with Peaceful Zion Missionary Baptist Church under the guidance of Reverend Dr. C. Preston, Jr. His deep commitment to service led to his ordination as a Deacon on March 22, 2006. He also diligently supported the Pastor's Aide Ministry, humbly serving as its Treasurer, ensuring that the work of the church flourished.

Never one to stand idle when there was more he could do for the Kingdom, in March 2008, William joined Breakthrough International Christian Center under the leadership of Apostle Burley and Pastor Linda Knowles. There, he once again stepped into the role of Deacon and served as an inaugural member of the Pastor's Aide Ministry. A masterful carpenter himself, he played an instrumental role in the remodeling and growth of the church's physical home, where he remained a devoted servant until his relocation to Smyrna, Georgia.

William was called to join his beloved parents, grandparents, and eldest daughter in Heaven on June 24, 2025. He is survived by one brother and sister-in-law, nine children and step-children, and a host of precious grandchildren and loving uncles, aunts, cousins, neighbors, and friends.

William's legacy is one of unwavering faith, steadfast love for his family, loyalty to his teams, and tireless service to others. He will be remembered for his jovial, can-do attitude, gentle spirit, warm smile, and deep devotion to every community of which he was a part. His impact will continue to echo in the lives of all who were blessed to know him.

May his memory be a blessing and his life a testament to a race well run, a faith well kept, and a crown richly deserved.