William Albert Lassiter Jr. (“Bill”), 82, died Friday, Feb. 19, 2022, at Community Hospice in Fernandina, Florida, surrounded by his family.
Visitation was held 5-7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 21 at Bailey Hall, St. Marys United Methodist Church. Graveside services was held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 22 at Oak Grove Cemetery, St. Marys.
William was born Aug. 31, 1939, in Tifton to the late Rosalie Mitchell Lassiter and William Albert Lassiter Sr. He graduated from Tift County High School and attended North Georgia Military College. Upon the untimely passing of his father, he returned home to care for his mother and attended ABAC and ultimately graduated from the University of Georgia in 1962 with a degree in forestry. In October 1962, he married his hometown sweetheart and neighbor, Waldene Griffin.
A charter member of the St. Marys Golf & Country Club, William had a passion for the game. He enjoyed countless rounds of golf with friends that brought him much joy. After graduation with his forestry degree, William worked in the forestry field for the Georgia Forestry Commission and later for Gilman Paper Company.
While working for Gilman Paper William felt the desire to go into the logging business on his own. He owned Satilla Forest Products for 25 years logging lands on Sapelo Island, South Georgia and Florida, until he semi-retired in 1992. His retirement didn’t last long. Shortly after retirement he started Coastal Water Systems which he owned for 28 years until his health ultimately forced him to retire, this time for good.
He is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 60 years, Waldene Griffin Lassiter; his children and spouses: Al and Suzi Lassiter of Acworth, Jay and Dever Lassiter of St. Marys, Lynne and Mark Durden of Marietta; grandchildren, Will Lassiter, Maggie Lassiter, Jack Lassiter, Jonathan Lassiter, Anna Lassiter, Caroline Durden, Griffin Durden and Amelia Durden.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Rosemary Lassiter.
The family suggests that any remembrances be made to the Camden County Humane Society in memory of William.
Allison Memorial Chapel is in charge of arrangements.