DALLAS–William H. McKinney III, former president of Royal China and Porcelain, died late last month at his home here in Dallas. He was 65 years old.
McKinney, who was trained as a lawyer, joined the tabletop industry in 1971, holding various roles at Fitz & Floyd. In 1985, after 14 years with Fitz & Floyd, he was named president of The Royal China & Porcelain Cos. Inc., distributors of the Royal Worcester and Spode brands in the United States.
“Bill brought with him a unique background of experiences,” read a statement from Royal China. “During his tenure, he was instrumental in building The Royal China & Porcelain Cos. Inc. into one of the premier resources for high-end tabletop and giftware.”
McKinney helped Royal Worcester and Spode expand into new products. Under his 13 years of leadership, sales to upscale department and specialty stores quadrupled, according to the company. After his retirement in 1998, he continued to work as a consultant for the industry.
Survivors include McKinney’s mother, Ethelyne McKinney; his sister, Janice Hodge; and two brothers, John and Tom McKinney, and their families.
