William "Bill" Francis Meyer-known to generations of students, players, and friends simply as "Coach Meyer"-passed away peacefully into the arms of his Lord on June 20, 2026, at the age of 79. He was a devoted husband, a proud dad and Grampy, a loyal son and brother, and a true friend to all who crossed his path.

Born under the warm Florida sun in Fort Myers on March 23, 1947, Bill was the cherished son of Robert and Hazel Meyer. He spent his boyhood running the streets of Tampa, graduating from Chamberlain High School in 1965 before earning his degree from the University of South Florida.

Bill’s true calling was on the hardwood and in the classroom. As a teacher and coach, he wasn’t just concerned with winning games—though he won plenty of them—but with building character. He poured his heart into mentoring young people, teaching them the value of grit, teamwork, and honest effort.

From his early days coaching championship-winning basketball at Tampa Catholic to his legendary 20-year run leading the Newton County Rams girls' varsity team alongside Coach Richard Porter, Bill left a lasting mark on generations of players. Even after leaving Newton County, his passion for coaching took him to Duluth, South Forsyth, Franklin County, and Banks County high schools, where he continued to shape young lives with his signature steady leadership.

Outside of the gym, Bill was a man of simple, beautiful pleasures. He was a jack of all trades, able to fix anything that was broken. He found his peace in the quiet moments: sitting by a campfire and telling stories, riding his beloved horse Raggedy Ann along the trails, and getting his hands dirty working in his garden. Bill was always the first to volunteer his hands to a neighbor in need, serving his community through countless hours with the Elks Club, the Optimist Club, and the Boy Scouts.

Bill was a man of few words, but when he spoke, it mattered. He led his home with a quiet humility, a resilient spirit, and an unconditional, boundless love. As a father, he never missed a milestone, teaching his children that a person's character is measured by how they treat others and how hard they work. He spent time playing with and guiding his children through life as he enthusiastically helped with homework, baited fishing rods, and gave countless tractor and hayrides. Sunsets and beach time brought Bill solace and treasured memories, whether he was walking along the shore, building sandcastles, or diving for sand dollars in the ocean.

Bill’s greatest victory wasn’t found on a scoreboard, but in the beautiful family he built with his sweetheart, Bonnie. Together, they shared 56 wonderful years of marriage-a lifetime of shared cups of coffee, quiet devotion, and a family anchored in deep faith.

He leaves behind a rich legacy of love with his devoted wife, Bonnie Meyer, and his children: Chris (April) Meyer, Holly Meyer-Dumdie (Matt Johnson), Heather (Bob) Meyer-Purtiman, and Matt (Sarah) Meyer; his beloved grandchildren: Caroline, Suzanna, Isabelle,

Anabelle, Jack, Lyla, Henry, and Katie; his siblings: Paul (Diane), Donnie (Eleanor), and John (Sally), along with many other cousins, nieces, and nephews. Bill was reunited in heaven with his parents, Robert and Hazel, and his brothers, Bobby and Steve.

The family invites extended family, friends, former players, and neighbors to gather, share stories, and celebrate a life incredibly well-lived at:  J.C. Harwell Funeral Home, 2157 East St SE, Covington, GA 30014 on Saturday, July 11th: Visitation 3:00-5:00 p.m., with a Memorial Service following at 5:00 p.m.

The Meyer family extends their deepest, heartfelt gratitude to all the family, friends, neighbors, and caregivers who wrapped them in comfort and provided such compassionate care during Bill’s final days.

In lieu of flowers, and in honor of Bill's lifelong passion for helping children find their way, the family requests that donations be made to Hope 1312 Collective at www.hope1312co.org to support children in foster care.