Billy Conn McCorkle

Billy Conn McCorkle was born on May 10, 1949, in Buena Vista, Georgia, and passed away peacefully at home in Plano, Texas, on February 28, 2026, after a brief stay in hospice care. His transition was gentle and swift, with his wife Susan and his loyal dog by his side.

He is survived by his wife, Susan Spaethe; his son, Mackenzie Spaethe McCorkle, and Mackenzie’s wife Allison, along with their children, granddaughter Maddy and grandson Gavin; his daughter, Yael Spaethe McCorkle; and many cousins, including Gayle McCorkle Miller, Betty Jo McCorkle Faulkner, and Jennifer Dial Hardage. He was preceded in death by his parents, J.C. (James Cleveland) McCorkle and Jonnie Pearl McCorkle, as well as many beloved canine companions, among them Pijak the Malamute and Walter the Great Pyrenees.

Billy devoted more than thirty years of his career to the State of Georgia, serving in Children Protective Services, the Health Department, and Information Technology. He was known for his attentive listening, his storehouse of unconventional facts, and his quirky intellect. Family and friends often turned to him for trivia knowledge and considered him their first choice for a team or a lifeline on Who Wants to Be a Millionaire. A devoted Atlanta Braves fan, he enjoyed watching or listening to their games and could quote favorite scenes from The Princess Bride and Armageddon. Though he patiently listened to his wife’s political discussions, he remained a staunch supporter of Libertarian and Republican principles.

Above all, Billy believed his greatest accomplishment was raising his two children to become independent, accomplished, and joyful adults. He found deep contentment in the company of dogs and in creating a warm, loving home. With characteristic ingenuity, he tackled car repairs and household projects, often making things work in his own distinctive way. Those who knew him will remember a life defined by dedication, loyalty, and quiet love.