Mr. William "Billy" James McCully

Son of James and Lucinda McCully, brother to Kenneth, Esther, Jim, Martin (predeceased) and Anne (predeceased). Loving husband to Leila McCully, devoted father to Ivan McCully, caring father-in-law to Karen Shoychet and proud grandfather to Justin and Brittney Shoychet-McCully.

Billy was born on November 2, 1940 in Belfast, Northern Ireland. He had a strong passion for history, literature and culture. Billy’s memory was so sharp and he had an answer to every question. He was a conversationalist who could enter any room and fit right in. Billy was always engaged in every interaction and used this as an opportunity to expand his knowledge in almost anything.

Billy met his wife, Leila, at the age of 14, when they crossed paths on the streets of Northern Ireland. They had an instant connection and got married when Billy was 20 and Leila was 21.

In 1966, Billy and Leila had their first and only child, Ivan. Soon after, they embarked on a journey to move to Canada where they started a new life together.

Billy was such a proud father and always supported Ivan throughout his accomplishments. Billy showed Ivan the importance of loyalty, a strong work ethic, patience and kindness. They shared a passion for sports, adventure and being on the road. Billy always taught Ivan that, “no one remembers the second man on the moon, they always remember the first,” meaning, always try to be the best and strive for greatness.

Billy had a passion for security and protection. He started out his early career working as security in Dominion stores and was recognized for his raw talent. He was given the opportunity to train at Tony Scotti Defensive Driving School in Boston while he worked for Monty Black as an executive protection specialist. Billy was motivated to achieve greatness, where he stayed loyal and committed throughout his career. He never missed a day of work and happily retired in 2015.

When Billy was off the clock, he still wanted to be on the road in the driver’s seat as this was such a joy to him. Billy and Leila would explore the city and beyond in their car. They enjoyed looking at the beauties Canada had to offer. They loved grabbing coffee at local shops, and they had a strong appreciation for nature itself. Billy also loved to take his Aunt Esther and Uncle Bobby on these road trips where they created endless memories with one another. Uncle Bobby was a marine, and Billy highly admired and respected veterans.

The light of Billy’s life, above all else, was family. When Ivan wed Karen Shoychet in 1995, Billy and Leila gained a daughter, and were so proud to expand their family. He loved Karen with all his heart and when she and Ivan brought his two grandchildren into the world a joy and love that cannot be described brought his life to new heights. He was extremely proud of Justin and Brittney and always cheered them on in whatever dreams they were chasing. He was so encouraging and would always reassure them that they could achieve anything they put their minds to. Billy loved to spoil his grandkids and their happiness was the greatest gift he could ever receive.

Billy was a family-oriented man. It was always important for him to maintain his relationships no matter the distance. He loved travelling back home to Northern Ireland, where he would catch up with his family. He always welcomed everyone with open arms when family visited Canada and his hospitality had no limits. Everyone always felt at home when with Billy and Leila.

Billy’s strength was impeccable. His handshake was so strong it had the power to turn coal into diamonds. His generosity, loyalty, humour, knowledge and love will be missed greatly and passed on to all those who knew him, loved him and those who will come after him.

A special thanks to Esther and Kenneth who flew out to Toronto to provide a shoulder to lean on throughout this painful loss. Thank you to family, friends, hospital staff and all Billy’s loved ones who have showed their love, support and have made the grieving process smoother.

May Billy Rest In Peace.

The funeral will be held at Kane-Jerrett Funeral Homes in Thornhill (8088 Yonge St) on Monday, February 21, 2022 at 1:30pm. Due to COVID-19, this is a Private Service by invite only and a virtual link will be provided for those who cannot attend in person. https://funeraweb.tv/diffusions/47682

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in honour of Billy can be made to Diabetes Canada or Beit Halochem Canada, Aid to Disabled Veterans of Israel.