Obituary of William Swatzell

William Clyde Swatzell Jr. went to be with his Savior on Aug. 4, 2015. He was born on Sept. 4, 1926 in Birmingham , Alabama. He served in the Navy during WWII, Pacific theater. He attended SMU and graduated from West Texas State. He later received his Master's degree from Columbia University.

He was a band director in Duval County for 35 years serving at Kirby Smith, Ribault, Fletcher and Sandalwood. During this time he also was a member in the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra. He played in other ensembles throughout the years.

He was a devoted Christian consistently serving the Lord wherever he found himself. More recently as a member of Celebration Lutheran Church where his smiling face and warm greetings helped many visitors feel welcomed.

He was preceded in death by his parents William Clyde Sr. and Freddie Hatcher Swatzell; His youngest son William Mark Swatzell. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Leta Dene Swatzell; Beloved sister, Mary Louise Kennedy of Trussville, Alabama. Children: Elisa (Terry) Marquardt, Denise (Jimmy) Kreis and Jeff Swatzell and six grandchildren ( John, Rachel, Abigail, Ashley, Amy and Mary )

Visitation will be held on Friday, Aug 7, 2015 at 10:00 am at Grace Church of Avondale , 3519 Herschel St., Jacksonville, Florida 32205, with service following at 11:00. Internment at a later date at Jacksonville Veterans National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers a memorial donation may be made to Community Hospice of North East Florida.

"Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints." Psalms 116:15