William Antonio McIlwain

It is with a heavy heart that I share the passing of my father, William Antonio McIlwain. Anyone who knew him will tell you the same thing—he was truly one of a kind. Some days he was serious, other days completely goofy, but no matter where he was, he was always himself.

My father was born on May 13, 1961, in Charlotte, North Carolina, the oldest son of Joyce Hemphill and William McIlwain, and the brother of Aaron “Mookie” McIlwain, all of whom he now joins in rest.

Though born in Charlotte, his move to The Bronx as a boy shaped him into the man we all knew and loved. Those years are not mine to fully tell, so I invite you to share the moments you remember most. What I do know is that from those years came a drive and determination that never left him. He believed in education, hard work, and betting on himself. He earned his master’s degree from Lehman College and went on to build a life in education and entrepreneurship, starting many businesses he took real pride in.

One thing about my father: he was always on the move, always chasing the next opportunity. There was never a time he wasn’t coming from or heading toward making more money. Along the way, he impacted more lives than I ever truly realized until now. Through his intelligence, humor, and unique way of doing things, he left his mark. Talking with so many of you, it’s clear the impression he left on you all. My father was an absolute force.

I didn’t fully understand it growing up, but I do now. This is what legacy looks like. My father was building something meaningful—something he could stand back and be proud of. He was building it for me.

William Antonio McIlwain will forever be remembered for his drive, intelligence, humor, and undeniable presence. May his memory inspire us to keep going after what we want and to be exactly who we are in every room we step into.

In place of a service, as my father wished, I ask that you share your love, stories, and memories here. 

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