Duncan William McRae, II, of Livonia, a beloved 14-year-old young man, passed away peacefully at home early Friday morning, May 31, 2024, surrounded by the love of his family. William, who bravely faced significant life challenges from Cerebral Palsy due to an injury at birth, lived a life marked by his pure and sweet nature, bringing light and happiness to all who knew him.

William was born July 21, 2009, in Las Vegas, to Duncan and Alison (Cummins) McRae. Duncan and Alison soon learned of William's need for support from his extended family and community, and moved back to Michigan.

A big part of that community was his school, which William dearly loved. From Kindergarten on, William attended Cooke School's Special Education Program in Northville. The caring Cooke staff, students, and families quickly became an exceptional support that William, Duncan, and Alison could lean on, and grew to become family. William's love for all of his teachers and staff are proof of their ability to have met all of his ever-changing needs without waver. His warm and affectionate spirit touched the hearts of everyone around him. His resilience and strength, especially as an Epilepsy warrior, were a source of inspiration as he navigated life's difficulties with a smile and an unwavering sense of hope.

Known for his wonderful sense of humor and boundless love, William brought joy and laughter to his family and friends. His intelligence and wit constantly surprised those around him, and he formed deep connections with his loved ones through his passion for music, including his favorite artists, Katy Perry, Mike Love, Dirty Heads, Stick Figure, and Taylor Swift. William had a special charm and charisma, earning him the affectionate title of "ladies-man." He had a profound ability to make friends and connect with his peers, especially at school, a testament to his loving and outgoing personality.

The Detroit Lions were a special part of William's life. He loved watching Lions games with his Dad. His favorite part was cheering on the kicker on field goal attempts and celebrating when ball went through the goal posts. When the exceptional Make-A-Wish Foundation learned of Will's love of the game, they put together a special experience with former Lions kicker and William's friend, Matt Prater, at a special Make-A-Wish experience with the Lions team. Ever selfless, William shared that experience with his schoolmates at Cooke. William grew a special bond with Matt and spent a season on the sidelines at home games as a guest of the team. His connection to the Lions was a highlight of his life that brought him immense joy.

William's family are so grateful for the loving care from Children's Hospital of Michigan, Brentwood Pediatrics and Angela Hospice. Though William's time on earth was short, his impact was profound. His laughter, love, and strength will be forever remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing him. He leaves behind a family who loved him deeply and will cherish his memory always.

William is survived by his devoted parents, Duncan and Alison; siblings, Sydney (Maeve)Perry and Lindsey (Gage Courtaway) McRae; grandparents, Duncan (Mayly) McRae,  Judy McRae, Susan (Roger House) Nichols, Robert (Margaret) Cummins, and Cathy Cummins; paternal aunts and uncles, Ryan (Kendria) Marler, Aaron (Kevin Oei) McRae, Amber Malley, Alex McRae, Terrence McRae, and Phillippe McRae; and maternal uncles, Ryan (Katrina) Cummins and Ryan McMillen.

William's family and friends may gather at Heeney-Sundquist for visitation on Wednesday. June 5, from 3-8 pm.  There will be a time for the sharing of memories and tributes to Will at 6:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the Cooke School PTA are appreciated.

William will be deeply missed but will live on in the hearts of those who loved him. May he rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the love and light he brought into the world.