Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) — The community of Gulf Shores has lost a true pillar with the passing of Bill McGinnes, affectionately known as Papa Rocco, whose restaurant and bar became synonymous with the area's vibrant social scene. McGinnes dedicated decades to his establishment, Papa Rocco's, turning it into a beloved spot where locals and visitors alike gathered for pizza, oysters, and lively conversations. His commitment to the business was evident in every aspect, from the quirky slogan of "warm beer and lousy pizza" to the personal touch he brought to customer interactions. Even after selling the restaurant, McGinnes remained a fixture in the community, embodying the spirit of resilience and hospitality that defines the northern Gulf Coast, where he built lasting bonds through shared hardships and a deep passion for people.

McGinnes passed away yesterday, July 16, 2025, at the age of 83, following a life marked by entrepreneurial drive and community involvement. Born in an era before Gulf Shores was a popular beach destination, he had celebrated his 83rd birthday just two months earlier at the very restaurant that bore his nickname. The family has not yet released details on the cause of death, but tributes have already begun pouring in from across the region. As the community processes this loss, plans for a memorial service will likely be announced in the coming days.

Papa Rocco's first opened its doors in 1985, though McGinnes had acquired the property a year earlier in 1984, transforming it into a casual eatery at 101 West 6th Avenue. The restaurant quickly gained a reputation for its fresh local seafood, legendary pizzas, and unpretentious atmosphere, surviving multiple hurricanes and economic shifts along the way. McGinnes, who hailed from a background in hospitality, poured his energy into making it a hub for live music and gatherings, often joking about its self-deprecating motto to draw in curious patrons. The business thrived for nearly four decades under his ownership, becoming an institution that reflected the growth of Gulf Shores from a quiet coastal town to a bustling tourist spot.

Also see: Iconic Gulf Shores Restaurant Likely Changing Hands 

McGinnes' foresight in planning for the restaurant's future highlighted his dedication to its enduring role in the community. He spent a couple of years carefully selecting a successor who shared his values, including a commitment to community service and a passion for local involvement—traits deepened by personal connections like Masonic brotherhood and bonds formed through mutual experiences of grief. Their friendship, which began over a quiet dinner at Villagio Grille in 2017 shortly after McGinnes lost his wife, Rose, allowed for a thoughtful transition that ensured Papa Rocco's would carry on in capable hands. This hand-picked arrangement, rooted in trust and shared outlook on business and life, underscored McGinnes' quiet determination to protect what he had built without fanfare.

In April 2024, McGinnes sold Papa Rocco's to the KJJ Group, a local entity led by Kenneth Jones, whom McGinnes had handpicked to carry on the traditions he had built over decades. Jones took over managing operations in May 2024, and the Gulf Shores City Council approved the liquor license transfer the following month. The sale ended years of speculation about the future of the beloved spot, giving McGinnes a chance to step away while securing the restaurant's place in the community under fresh leadership. Even after the ownership change, Papa Rocco's held onto its original name and core traditions, such as the events McGinnes had championed, which helped maintain its role as a Gulf Shores staple. Local residents pointed out that the handover showed real respect for McGinnes' vision, keeping intact the unpretentious spirit that defined the place. In his last hours, those closest to McGinnes offered quiet words of comfort, sharing that they loved him deeply and would miss him every day, that he could rest easy knowing Papa Rocco's legacy would endure, and that it was time for him to go home and reunite with Rose.

One of McGinnes' enduring contributions was his role in the annual St. Patrick's Day Walking Parade, a tradition in Gulf Shores that he helped sustain and grow. The parade, which doubles as a pub crawl, originated in the 1970s under the guidance of Vince Murphy, the Pink Pony Pub owner, but McGinnes took over as grand marshal in 1989. Under his organization, it evolved into a major event starting and ending at Papa Rocco's, drawing hundreds of participants each March 17 to march through Gulf Shores, stopping at bars along Highway 59. Even after selling the business, McGinnes remained the honorary leader for the 2025 parade, which rolled successfully earlier this year, highlighting his lasting impact on local culture.

Looking ahead, McGinnes' influence on the Gulf Shores area will undoubtedly persist through the stories shared by patrons and the ongoing operations at Papa Rocco's. Local business owners have expressed that his model of community engagement could guide future entrepreneurs in navigating the challenges of coastal living, such as seasonal tourism and storm recovery. As the region continues to attract more residents and visitors, events like the St. Patrick's Day parade serve as a bridge to the area's history, reminding everyone of figures like McGinnes. His straightforward approach to life, without embellishment, leaves a blueprint for authenticity in a changing landscape, one that emphasizes careful stewardship and genuine connections over self-promotion.