Obituary of Billy Swails, III

William Taylor “Billy” Swails, III, 54, husband of Carol Ann Swails, passed away Wednesday, June 5, 2024, at Tidelands Georgetown Memorial Hospital. Born on December 15, 1969, in Georgetown, he was a son of William Taylor Swails, Jr. and the late Theresa Ann Harper Manzolillo. Billy was an employee of International Paper Company, where he worked diligently and earned the respect of his coworkers, who he considered family. His commitment to his work was paralleled only by his dedication to advocating for his fellow workers. As a past president of the United Steel Workers Union, Billy was a passionate and effective leader, tirelessly striving to improve conditions and protect the rights of workers. His legacy within the union is one of integrity, strength, and unwavering support for the working class. Outside of his work life, Billy was an avid outdoorsman. He found joy and peace in hunting and fishing, often sharing these beloved pastimes with his family. Billy’s greatest pleasure came from spending quality time with his loved ones, especially his grandchildren, whom he adored. Known for his vivid storytelling, he could captivate any audience with his tales, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the pleasure of hearing them. Billy’s life was a testament to dedication, hard work, and the love of family and community. Survivors include his wife, Carol Ann Swails of Andrews; father, W.T. “Bubba” Swails, Jr. (Jil) of Andrews; five children, Magen Elizabeth Cormier (Josh) of Georgetown, William T. “Ty” Swails, IV of Fayette, AL, Tripp Pierceson Swails (Courtney) of Andrews, Mary Alice Swails of Andrews and Melody Jane Swails of Andrews; six grandchildren, Brooklyn Cormier, Elliana Swails, Miles Grant Cormier, Pierson Swails, Tucker Swails and Leighton Billie-Claire Cormier; a young man that was close to his heart, Landon Criddle of Alabama; two sisters, Kristie Swails (Jerry Hicks) of Andrews and Scarlett Swails (Valeriy) of Tampa, FL; two brothers, Randy Swails (Andrea) of Columbus, MS and Arthur Swails (Nahid) of Columbia; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a sister, Melody Elizabeth Swails. Funeral services will be held at 3 PM Saturday, June 8, 2024, at The Christian Fortress. The family will receive friends from 6-8 PM Friday, June 7, 2024, at The Christian Fortress. Memorials may be made to Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital, 848 Adams Ave. Memphis, TN 38103 or to The Christian Fortress, 536 US Hwy 521 Andrews, SC 29510 Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.ridgewayfh.com Ridgeway Funeral Home of Georgetown is in charge of the arrangements. (843) 485-4242