William David "W.D." Looney

William David "W.D." Looney, Sr., age 80, was at heart a storyteller, a man devoted to his family, whose tales of coming of age in Winterville and eastern Clarke County will be passed down for generations. He was a beloved father and husband, whose sons watched and learned well.
W.D. or Bill, better known to childhood friends as Billy, died Sunday, September 6. Joyce, his wife of 62 years, was by his side.
Mr. Looney grew up in Winterville, GA. During the Great Depression, the family depended on farm work, growing crops and raising livestock. He and Joyce attended Winterville High School and Winterville's basketball team in the early 1950s became the "Hoosiers of the South." The entire community rallied around its team, and Billy Looney was a force at power forward as their hard-nosed play captured the 1953 state championship.
His early background in farming had instilled a love of tractors, and he began a business selling tractors and lawn and garden equipment. This later expanded to include equipment rental, and his company, AA Rental and Sales, grew throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Those who knew Mr. Looney as a businessman appreciated the personal care he took with his customers, who often became friends. He was well known for his generosity and assisting those in need. Doing business with Bill Looney was often a combination of friendliness, laughter, and excellent service. Mr. Looney also grew up an avid Georgia Bulldog fan and provided much support to the UGA Athletic Association through his business.
Mr. Looney loved sports. He coached his sons during their youth sports years, and enjoyed watching his grandchildren in their sporting endeavors.
Alzheimer's came into his life during his post-retirement years. Those involved in his care spoke of their love and genuine affection for Mr. Looney.
He was predeceased by his parents W.B. and Mildred Looney and his son Patrick Looney. He is survived by his wife Joyce Looney, of Dacula, GA; his daughter-in-law Karen Looney of Greensboro, NC, his sons Dave Looney (Becky) of Irmo, SC; Paul Looney (Carol) of Watkinsville, GA; Dean Looney (Kim) of Dacula, GA; daughter Liz Hill (Dean), of Aurora, CO; thirteen grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
A funeral service will be held at Tuckston Methodist Church in Athens on Thursday, Sept. 10 at 2:00 PM. Visitation with the family will be at 1:00 PM at Tuckston United Methodist Church followed by the service at 2:00PM. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Georgia Sheriff's Youth Home, P.O. Box 1000, Stockbridge, GA 30281 or a charity of your choice.