Billy Wayne “Bill” Washnock of Valdosta, passed away on Friday, January 30, 2026. He was born in Mansfield, LA on January 9, 1946. He graduated from Mansfield High School in 1963 and then attended and graduated from the University of Louisiana at Monroe on a football scholarship. While living in Monroe, he was in the furniture business for many years. Bill and Mary Jane met in Valdosta in 1996. He eventually settled here and he and Mary Jane started dating. They got married a year later in 1997. They lived in Brooks County for almost 20 years and they both enjoyed gardening, flowers and the outdoors. During their time in Brooks County, Bill was Maintenance Supervisor at the Presbyterian Home in Quitman. He was known as a meticulous handyman who could fix, build or repair just about anything. Bill was also an expert fisherman and hunter, especially in his younger years in Louisiana. In later years he especially enjoyed fishing in Florida during his family’s annual beach trips. Another pastime he was devoted to was keeping a lovely and well-maintained home.

Bill is survived by his wife Mary Jane DeVane Washnock, of Valdosta, Tony Washnock of Ozark, Illinois, stepdaughter and her spouse, Lara and Rob Buffaloe, of Roswell, GA. Stepdaughter Leslie and Trey Sherwood, of Valdosta, his grandchildren, Abbie Clark, Julia Sherwood, Elizabeth Buffaloe, Anna Buffaloe and JW LaCoste, his brother David and Kay Washnock, of Valdosta, sister and brother in law, Ann and David Platt, of Benton, LA. And special nephews John Washnock, James Washnock and their families, as well as several other nieces and nephews.

A private family service will be held at Carson McLane Funeral Home. The family will host a reception for Bill on Saturday, February 21, 2026 from 2-4pm at Park Place by McLane, 108 W. Park Avenue, Valdosta, GA 31602. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Hospice of South Georgia or First Methodist Church. Online condolences may be shared at www.mclanecares.com

Carson McLane Funeral Home is assisting the Washnock Family.