Metro Atlanta football legend William “Buck” Godfrey passes away at 78

Southwest DeKalb High School reported that William “Buck” Godfrey, its iconic football coach for three decades, has died. Godfrey began coaching the Panthers in 1983 and retired in 2012, guiding the team to the playoffs in all but three seasons and winning the 1995 GHSA AAAA championship. His achievements earned him membership in the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame, the Georgia High School Association Hall of Fame, and the Southwest DeKalb Hall of Fame.

The coach’s daughter confirmed the passing to a local television reporter on Saturday night. Southwest DeKalb highlighted his lasting impact, noting that he instilled character and integrity in students and athletes alike. Godfrey had previously reflected that his focus was always on developing good citizens rather than personal accolades. The community mourns the loss of a figure who shaped generations of young people in the metro Atlanta area.