William Joseph "Billy" Keenan, II

William Joseph “Billy” Keenan, II passed away on Sunday, June 21, 2026, after suffering a stroke and a valiant battle with vascular dementia. Billy was born October 21, 1955, to Catherine Lawrence Keenan and Andrew Moore Keenan. He was originally named William Lawrence Keenan going by Billy Lawrence or B.L. In 1962, after the birth of his brother Dean Lawrence Keenan, Billy’s name was changed to honor both grandfathers.

Billy was a lifelong resident of Columbia who spent his childhood in Lake Katharine. He often said he enjoyed “the best childhood in the world” growing up alongside his numerous neighborhood friends. Billy had a love of the outdoors and all things sports, especially the newly formed Dallas Cowboys, which he followed religiously on his transistor radio. He also had a lifelong love of the Atlanta Braves and all things Gamecocks, as well as spending time in the country at his farm. Billy was a natural storyteller and his conviviality was infectious.

Billy attended Dreher High School before graduating from the University of South Carolina at Coastal Carolina College with a degree in Business Administration. It was there he found a mentor in E. Craig Wall, Jr, and realized his aptitude for and interest in business and accounting. After graduating in 1977, Billy accepted an offer from his Uncle Shiney to join Keenan Oil Company. By September of 1990, Billy had become President of the Company, modifying the name to Keenan Energy and served as President until 2021.Billy was elected President of the SCPMA in 1996, and was a member of the EAGC for over five decades. He was a beloved husband, father, and friend. Few things brought him more joy than coaching youth baseball, where he invested countless hours teaching, encouraging, and building friendships that lasted a lifetime.

Billy was predeceased by his father, Andrew; stepfather Sam McFadden; and mother, Cappy. Above all, Billy was devoted to his family. He is survived by his wife of nearly 47 years, Mary Benson Keenan; sons Joe (Julie), Palmer (Celia); grandchildren Liam, Frances, Charlie, Taylor, and Elsie; brothers Andrew and Dean and sister Catherine K. Mayo; He enjoyed the rare gift of loving, loyal, and caring friends and leaves behind his beloved canine companions Daisy and B.B.

Billy will be remembered for his quick wit, his generous spirit, love of family, and his ability to make friends wherever he went.

The family is grateful Billy was able to be cared for at home, and the family would like to express their gratitude to ExpertUS Care and their skilled caregivers.

A visitation will be held on Thursday evening, June 25th from 4:30 until 7:30 at the family’s home, 4787 Heath Hill Road, Columbia, with a private burial later in the week.

Memorials can be made to The Andy Greenberg Tennis Fund, 854 Galway Lane, Columbia, SC 29209.

Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family.