William "Bill" Eugene Sykes, Jr., 93, passed away on February 27, 2024. Born on May 27, 1930, to the late William Eugene Sykes, Sr. and Bernice Sykes, Bill was a resident of Darien, Georgia, for over five decades.

Known affectionately as "Mr. Smiley" for his easy-going, laid-back nature, Bill is remembered for his handiness, his abilities as a storyteller, and his love for his church. He also garnered the nickname "The Walking Man," as he could often be found out walking as many as 15 miles a day! He was a fan of the Georgia Bulldogs, Atlanta Falcons, and the Atlanta Braves – it was no secret that red was his favorite color.

In his youth, Bill joined the Navy at only 17 years old, and spent seven years in the service. Bill worked for the Interstate Paper Company from 1968, when he became a resident of Darien, until 1995, when he retired. He was a member of Georgia Masonic Lodge #137 for over fifty years and was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Darien.

Bill was preceded in death by his wife, Inez Sykes; his former in-laws, Eva and J.C. Stallard; and Elton and Gladys Scott, who took on the role of his parents at an early age.

He is survived by his wife, Grace Sykes; sons, Terry Sykes, Scott Sykes (Joy), and Steve Sykes; his step-children, Lynda Sorber (Bob), John Steele (Sherry), Christopher Steele (Diane), and Molly Franklin; 14 grandchildren; 13 great-grand-children; as well as his beloved pups, Frankie and Minnie.

The family would like to name Dr. Marsha Certain, Dr. Scott Clay, and Dr. Lee of Saint Vincent's Hospital as honorary pallbearers.

A visitation will be held at First Baptist Church of Darien on Monday, March 4, 2024, at 10:00 AM, with a funeral service to follow at 11:00 officiated by Brother Jack Peeler. Interment will take place at Brunswick Memorial Park.

Brunswick Memorial Park Funeral Home is honored to have assisted the Sykes family.