William "Bill" Lewis Schwanebeck, Jr.

William "Bill" Lewis Schwanebeck, Jr., a dedicated and accomplished individual, passed away on Wednesday, September 13, 2023, at the age of 87 in Warner Robins. Bill's life journey was marked by remarkable achievements, both in his professional career and personal endeavors.

Bill was born on November 10, 1935, in Jacksonville, Florida, to his loving parents, the late William Lewis Schwanebeck and Elizabeth Pichler Schwanebeck. He graduated from Savannah High School in 1954. His thirst for knowledge led him to South Georgia College, where he laid the foundation for his future success. Bill's pursuit of higher education culminated in the attainment of his bachelor's degree in industrial management from Georgia Institute of Technology.

In his professional life, Bill made significant contributions to the insurance industry. He began his career at Travelers Insurance Company, where he dedicated five years to the health department. Subsequently, he became a third partner at C.L. Williams Insurance Agency, where he continued to excel in his field from 1965 to 1970.

Bill's entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly as he ventured into land development in 1968 through Georgia Houston Properties, Inc. He continued his successful journey in real estate by starting the Dixie Delta Corp in 1970, where he served as a residential developer until his retirement in 2015.

One of Bill's proudest accomplishments was the establishment of Southern Lighting in 1987. His dedication and vision led to the creation of a thriving business that continues to shine today, leaving a lasting legacy in the industry.

Throughout his life, Bill was an active and respected member of the business community. He served as a director of the Bank of Warner Robins and contributed his expertise to institutions such as C&S Bank, Citizens, and Southeast National Bank before retiring in 1992. He was also a founding director of Builder’s Insurance Company and served until 2012. Bill also served as a former third time president of the Home Builder’s Association of Warner Robins, former president of Central Georgia Board of Realtors, and a former chairman of Multiple Listing Service (MLS) in 1995. Bill has played a vital part in Houston County Planning and Zoning for 46 years and served as a memorable chairman for 29 years. Bill was also a longtime member of Saint Christopher's Episcopal Church in Perry.

In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by his grandchild, Brooke Schwanebeck; and brother, Alfred Schwanebeck.

His memory will forever be treasured by his wife of 26 years, Gale Everidge Schwanebeck; son, Billy Schwanebeck (Debbie); grandchildren, Hailey Doyle (Christian), Hollie Saunders (Josh), and Hunter Schwanebeck (Kayley); stepchildren, Jim Langston (Debbie) and Kristie Hill (Bill); step grandchildren, Chandler, Colby, Chloe, Cal, and Mandy; great-grandchildren, Grayson and Charlie Doyle and Kinley Schwanebeck; siblings, Chris Schwanebeck (Barbara), and John Schwanebeck (Kathy); nieces and nephews, Stephen Schwanebeck, Kim Riley, Jaberial Riley; and great-niece, Addison.

Visitation will be Saturday, September 16, 2023, from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church with a funeral service immediately following 11:00 a.m. William “Bill” Lewis Schwanebeck, Jr. will be privately laid to rest in Magnolia Park Cemetery.

Go to www.mcculloughfh.com to sign the Online Registry for the family. McCullough Funeral Home and Crematory has the privilege of being entrusted with these arrangements.