Billy Dabbs passed away on January 5, 2025, at the age of 94 in Eatonton, Georgia. Born on
September 19, 1930, in Buena Vista, Georgia, Billy moved to Eatonton in 1952 with his beloved
wife, Ann Pilcher Dabbs, and their eldest child, William Austin Dabbs Jr.
Billy led an extraordinary life full of passion, energy, and dedication to his family and community.
He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Billy is survived by his
wife of 74 years, Ann Pilcher Dabbs; children, Austin Dabbs (Teresa), Donna Haley (Russell),
and Neal Dabbs (Carla); grandchildren, Allison Dabbs (Jeb), Erica Haley (Simon), Meredith
Troiano (Andy), Hallie Cash, Will Dabbs (Jessica), Raina Collins, and Brooklyn Collins;
great-grandchildren, Anna Faye, Lola, Noah, Jonah, Griffin, Cason, and Joey.
A man of many talents, Billy's career was as varied as it was impactful. He earned his bachelor's
degree in Vocational Agriculture Education from the University of Georgia on June 4, 1951, the
same day his first child was born. He went on to earn his master's degree from UGA the
following year.
He began his teaching career at Putnam County High School, where he taught agriculture and
served as the FFA advisor, mentoring countless young people in his community. Later, Billy
became superintendent of Putnam County Schools. He continued his dedication to public
service by serving two terms as mayor of Eatonton, leaving a lasting imprint on the community
he loved. He also served as a volunteer firefighter, always ready to lend a hand to those in
need. Billy was a true pioneer on Lake Sinclair, becoming the first person to water ski on the
lake and later building his own ski jump.
Billy was an adventurer at heart, and he always included his family in his sports and hobbies.
Whether it was scuba diving, deep-sea fishing, snow skiing, or golfing, Billy made sure to share
his passions with those he loved. He worked hard and played hard, and his boundless energy
and enthusiasm for life inspired everyone around him. Billy was also known for his love of
working in the garden and driving his bulldozer. Always active and living life to the fullest, he
remained healthy and engaged for more than 90 years.
Billy faced life with strength, resilience, and an unyielding spirit. He lived life on his own
terms—empowered and never victimized by anything. His vitality and zest for life were an
inspiration to all who knew him, and his vibrant spirit will be deeply missed by his family, friends,
and the community he served with dedication and pride.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Putnam Christian Outreach
To send flowers or plant a tree in memory of William 'Billy' Austin Dabbs Sr., visit the
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