Obituary of William Herschel McFarland

William “Herschel” McFarland of Austin TX. passed away at 93 early Sunday morning, August 29, 2021. 

Born in Leander on February 25, 1928, Herschel was an Atomic Veteran having served as a sailor at Bikini Atoll in 1946 for the first and second plutonium bomb tests in the Marshall Islands during Operation Crossroads. He was a racer of jalopies and stock cars in Texas for over 16 years. Herschel was also a lifelong musician and Texas Country Music Hall of Fame inductee. 

Herschel was preceded in death by his loving wife Ruth, sons Richard and Darrell, parents Howard and Emmie, along with three sisters and one brother. Herschel is survived by son Roger, daughter Laura, granddaughter A'Bree, sweetheart Joan Weeden, and many nieces and nephews all of whom he loved dearly. Leaving behind many good Friends and admiring Fans, Herschel will be deeply missed by the lives he touched. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, November 14, 2021 from 4:00pm - 7:00pm with a chapel service at 5:00pm located at Austin Peel and Son Fuenral Home, 607 East Anderson Lane. Austin, TX 78752.

Services will be live-streamed through our Austin Peel and Son Facebook Page to allow those unable to attend to participate.

Due to the Coronavirus /  COVID-19 Restrictions from the City of Austin,

capacity levels are restricted at funeral homes, churches, and cemeteries.

Each person entering the funeral home, church, and cemetery will be required to wear a mask

and to practice social distancing of 6 feet or more.   If you are ill or are concerned about the virus,

it is recommended that you not attend services. 

The family is so grateful to everyone for their understanding, love, and support

during this very difficult time.