Legendary DeKalb football coach William 'Buck' Godfrey passes away

Legendary high school football coach Buck Godfrey dies at 83

William "Buck" Godfrey, the legendary former Southwest DeKalb High School football coach and winningest Black football coach in Georgia history, has passed away at the age of 83. During his 30-year tenure from 1983 to 2012, Coach Godfrey amassed a county-record 273 wins, led the Panthers to the 1995 GHSA AAAA State Championship, and sent hundreds of student-athletes to college on scholarships. He is remembered not only for his hall-of-fame achievements on the field but for his profound mentorship, character building, and lasting legacy off of it.

DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. - Former Southwest DeKalb High School football coach William "Buck" Godfrey has died, according to multiple social media posts published over the weekend. 

What we know:

Legendary high school football coach William "Buck" Godfrey has died, social media posts confirmed. 

The news was shared Saturday on Instagram and Facebook by the Southwest DeKalb High School football page.

Godfrey took over as the head football coach at Southwest DeKalb in 1983. 

During his tenure, he achieved the most wins in DeKalb County history, led the team to two state championship appearances and won the 1995 GHSA 4A state title. 

His teams reached the playoffs in 27 out of his 30 years as head coach. Alumni noted that his greatest gift was the character and integrity he instilled in those he coached.

Godfrey spent decades coaching and mentoring young athletes in DeKalb County. 

Beyond his state title run in 1995, his legacy includes decades of community involvement, including a highlighted moment from 1992 when he was pictured with his daughter as she was crowned homecoming queen. 

What we don't know:

An official cause of death has not yet been released by officials or family members. Further details regarding memorial services or funeral arrangements have not been made available.