James William “Billy” Edenfield, 78

James William “Billy” Edenfield, age 78, of Swainsboro, passed peacefully at his home on Friday, July 25, 2025, surrounded by his loving wife and children, following a courageous battle with cancer. A celebration of life was held Monday, July 28, at 2 p.m. at Hawhammock Baptist Church with Pastor Cail Pressey and Johnny Claxton officiating. Interment followed at the Swainsboro City Cemetery. Visitation was held Sunday, July 27, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Chapman Funeral Home.

Pallbearers were Dylan Pierce, Eddie Hurst, Weston Edenfield, Jacob Pierce, Jarret Pierce, Steven Cason, Jerry Lawson and Michael Turner. Honorary pallbearers were all members of the Swainsboro First Baptist Men’s Softball Team and wives, John Thompson Sunday School Class and Johnny and Martha Claxton.

Born November 24, 1946, in Swainsboro, Billy was a devoted husband, father, and “Pa Pa” whose life was defined by faith, service, and love for others. A 1964 graduate of Swainsboro High School, Billy excelled in both baseball, track, and football during his youth. While in high school, he met the love of his life, Charlotte Claxton. The two married and shared 59 wonderful years together, building a home full of faith, laughter, and deep devotion to family.

Billy served 39 years with the United States Postal Service before retiring. He was a dedicated member of Hawhammock Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon and helped start the church’s Upward Sports program. His passion for ministry extended into the community as a frequent guest speaker at local churches and through his work in the jail ministry.

Over the years, Billy gave selflessly to the people of Emanuel County. He served on the Emanuel County Board of Education for 11 years, seven of those as chairman. He was a Georgia high school umpire for 35 years and coached at the local recreation department, forging lifelong friendships with countless kids and adults along the way. He was a member of the Gideons. Billy and Charlotte were also foster parents to nine children over the years, offering love and stability to those who needed it most.

After retirement, Billy poured his heart into supporting his grandchildren—attending their games, school events, and milestones—always cheering the loudest from the sidelines. He also embraced the outdoors, spending treasured time fishing, hunting and all types of sports. Mr. Edenfield is preceded in death by his grandparents, Bill and Rita Moxley; mother, Juanita (Moxley) Edenfield; father, Richard Edenfield; infant son, Adam Edenfield; great-grandson, Jett Daniel Pierce; and daughter-in-law, Lina Edenfield.

Mr. Edenfield is survived by his beloved wife, Charlotte Claxton Edenfield; daughter, April (Darin) Pierce of Warner Robins; son, Bill (Susie) Edenfield of Statesboro; grandchildren: Dylan (Allie) Pierce, Makayla (Eddie) Hurst, Weston (Sophia) Edenfield, Jena Murph, Jacob (Anabelle) Pierce, Jay Murph, Aubrey Edenfield, Jarret Pierce and Steven Cason; his cherished great-grandchildren, Avery, Lenley, Adeline, Raelyn, Warren, Ezekiel, Roman and Selah, sister, Brenda (Edenfield) Turner of Soperton; Natosha Lynn and Presleigh Hortman; and many extended family members and dear friends who will miss him deeply.

The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to Dr. Ray and the nurses and staff of Community Hospice for their compassionate care during Billy’s final days.

Billy Edenfield lived a life of purpose and faith, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and devotion. He will be missed beyond measure, but his influence and memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers the family request donation to: Gideons International, P.O. Box 365 Swainsboro, Georgia 30401 or a charity of your choice.