Mr. William McKinley Underwood

William McKinley Underwood, age 86, of Scottsboro, Alabama, passed away peacefully on the morning of December 5, 2025, surrounded by his loving family and his devoted wife of 68 years., Rachel, by his side. Born February 4th, 1939 in Florence, he was the son of William McKinley Underwood and Aurelia Underwood, and the beloved brother of James Underwood, Nancy Darby, Janet Ellet, Geneva Woods, Mary Johnson, Alice Methvin, and Norma Hobson. He grew up in a close-knit family rooted in faith, hard work, and love — values he carried throughout his life. He was a member of Broad Street Church of Christ where he served as a deacon for years. A graduate of Mars Hill Bible School, he began his career with Union Carbide before moving to Champion Paper Mill and later Mead Container/WestRock, where he retired after a long and dedicated career. He was a man known for his deep knowledge, steady leadership, and unwavering work ethic — qualities that earned him the respect and admiration of everyone he worked alongside. At home, he was the rock of his family. A loving grandfather to fourteen grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren, he found his greatest joy in watching his family grow. He had a gift for fixing anything — whether it was a broken appliance or a problem no one else could solve — and he offered that same quiet dependability to everyone he loved. His life was filled with simple joys, deep love, and the kind of wisdom that can only come from a life well lived. He leaves behind a legacy of strength, kindness, faithfulness, and a family who adored him. Though he will be deeply missed, his memory will forever guide and comfort those who were blessed to know him. Mr. Underwood is survived by his wife, Rachel L. Underwood; daughters, Jennifer Johnson (Joey), Kim Border (Paul); sons, Brian Underwood (Lisa), Eric Underwood (Leslie); 14 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; sisters, Norma Hobson, Mary Johnson, Janet Ellett, Alice Methvin, Nancy Darby; brother, James Underwood; several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, William M. and Aurelia Underwood; and sister, Geneva Woods. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM at the Scottsboro Funeral Home. Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, December 9, 2025 at the funeral home with Bro. Randy Brown officiating. Burial will be in Stoney Point Cemetery at 3:00 PM. The family would also like to acknowledge the loving caretakers who have been a blessing to us and our parents. Sherry Brown, Shelia Farmer, Connie Holcomb, and Karun Mount (Hospice of North Alabama) have been incredibly special in caring for our father and continuously supporting our mother. They have all gone above and beyond the call of duty and will forever be considered part of our family. THANK YOU! Arrangements Entrusted to Scottsboro Funeral Home

Mr. William McKinley Underwood

February 4, 1939 - December 5, 2025