Mr. William Merrill Swinson "Coach Billy", 81, of Metter, GA, passed away on Monday, July 15, 2024 at his home.

Billy was born in Savannah, GA and had lived in Pooler, GA for many years.  He was preceded in death by his wife, Carol Adams Swinson, a son, Delwin Swinson, his parents, Clarence J. and Cordelia McCrary Swinson, and two brothers, Annaual McCrary and James Ford.  Billy served his country in the U.S. Navy and retired from the U.S. Civil Service.  He served as a Volunteer Fireman with Pooler and served on the Recreation Board of Pooler for many years.  He coached Little League football and baseball for 35 years where he had the honor of shaping many lives.  He also taught hunter safety courses and was an avid hunter, fisherman, and outdoorsman.  He was an active member of the Stillmore Baptist Church.  Billy was a loved father and grandfather.

Survivors include his children, Ronald Lee Swinson, Tonya Nesmith (Terry L.), and Keith Adam Swinson; grandchildren, Mark Anthony Mathews, Joshua Adam Mathews, Christopher Alexander Mathews, Kinsley Lyn Swinson, Tate Grimes, Dillon Nesmith, and Zachary Nesmith; nine great-grandchildren; sister, Shelia Strickland (Wallace), as well as a number of nieces and nephews.

The visitation will be on Friday, July 19, 2024 from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. at the funeral home.

The funeral to honor Coach Billy's life will be on Saturday, July 20, 2024 at 10 a.m. in the chapel of the funeral home with burial to follow at Hillcrest Abbey East Cemetery.

Thomas C. Strickland & Sons Funeral Homes – WEST CHATHAM CHAPEL – 901 W. Hwy. 80 – Pooler, GA (912) 748-2444