William “Bill” Weaver McKinstry, beloved husband, father, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 6, 2025, shortly after the loss of his cherished wife, Barbara. He was 85 years old.

Born in Pennsylvania on June 29, 1940, Bill graduated from Penn State University and soon after joined the Peace Corps, serving in Cartagena, Colombia. His years there left a lasting impact, shaping his lifelong commitment to service, justice, and human dignity.

Bill eventually made New Mexico his home, living in Albuquerque, Santa Fe, and Las Vegas before settling in Pecos—a place he dearly loved. He found joy in hiking the trails, walking his dogs daily, and embracing the beauty of the mountains.

A man of quiet strength and conviction, Bill played a pivotal role in sparking New Mexico’s first civil rights investigation, standing against the injustice of Black mothers being forced to give birth in a hospital boiler room rather than the main maternity ward. His greatest accomplishment was his work as a community organizer for racial relations. His tireless efforts brought together divided communities, organized credit unions for working families, and advanced civil rights causes, leaving a legacy of understanding, fairness, and unity.

Bill’s life was rich with passions: he was an avid reader, a lover of culture, history, politics, baseball, crossword puzzles, and thoughtful conversations about world affairs. Even into his eighties, he continued to run many 5K races—often winning his age division—always showing up with determination and heart.

He was married three times, and with Barbara, his partner of 45 years, he built a blended family that extended across birth, adoption, and marriage. He is survived by his children, stepchildren, grandchildren, sisters, nieces and nephews and a close circle of friends and community members who remember him for his gentle humor, humility, and kind spirit.

Bill will be remembered for his unwavering belief in justice, his love of family, and his generous spirit. Though often quiet and reserved, his life spoke volumes, and his wisdom and love will continue to guide and inspire all who knew him.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, August 23, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at the Pecos Senior Center, with a memorial walk to follow.

To honor his memory, donations are welcomed for the Children’s Defense Fund 

Donations may be made at: https://everloved.com/life-of….

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