Elder Billy Dell McAdoo "Mack"

Billy Dell McAdoo, also known as “Mack,” was born on October 15, 1940, in Nashville, Tennessee.   He peacefully departed this world on March 9, 2024.  He was the second of two sons born to Thomas Washington, Sr., and Irene McAdoo.

He is preceded in death by his mother, father, brothers James McAdoo and Thomas Washington, Jr., and wife Hattie Griffin -McAdoo.

At an early age, Billy “Mack” devoted his life to Christ at Meharry Blvd. Seventh-Day Adventist Church, now known as Hillcrest Seventh-Day Adventist Church.  In 1978, he worked with Pastor Henry Holt and other elders to conduct an evangelistic effort called “Youth For Better Living” which resulted in the establishment of New Life Seventh-Day Adventist Church.   Here, he served as First Elder for many years.  He was a faithful servant in church and in the community until recently.

Billy “Mack” also proudly served as chairman of the F. H. Jenkins Elementary School board for many years. Billy “Mack” was so proud that he, his daughter Mia and each of her children all attended and graduated from F. H. Jenkins Elementary School (now F. H. Jenkins Preparatory School).

Billy Mack attended Cameron High School where he played football.  He graduated class of 1959 and went on to receive his Bachelor of Science degree from Tennessee State University and a Master of Arts degree from Fisk University. Upon graduation, Billy “Mack” began his teaching career in the Metro Nashville Public School system.  He had a passion for science and biology and loved his students.  He was a dedicated educator for 40 years and voted “Teacher of the Year” several times.

Billy “Mack” was a loving and dedicated father and grandfather.  He absolutely loved spending time with his children and grandchildren.  He was present for almost every birthday, sporting event, school program, recital, graduation and for all holiday festivities.  He found the greatest joy in spending time with family and making lasting memories with his loved ones.  He was the family photographer and videographer and ensured every memory was captured.  In addition to his family, he also took pride in caring for his wide variety of pets which included two ball python snakes, fish, an iguana, a bearded dragon lizard, gerbils and two dogs named Attitude and Brezhnev.

Billy “Mack” leaves behind to continue his legacy, two daughters, Mia Harrell and Shimei McAdoo (Damion).  Devoted bonus children: Vanecia Gibbs, Jerrod, Briggs, Tyrus Briggs (Marina), Daymeon McAlpine (Sarah) and Usyeff Griffin. Grandchildren: Ricky James Harrell Jr., Ricky J. Rashaad Harrell, III, Ravyn Jamese Shardae’ Clausell (Nantambu), Desmond Dashon McAdoo, Jaidyn Lamar McAdoo and Trey Joshua Amir Dyer, sister-in-law Emma Jean McAdoo, niece Michelle McAdoo-Crockett, first cousins Beverly Johnson, Kenneth Johnson (Barbara), Joseph Johnson, second cousin Larry Johnson, two devoted friends—Preston Brown and Theodore Ensley and a host of other relatives and friends.