Silas " Bill" William Herrin

Port Wentworth, Georgia — Silas William “Bill” Herrin passed away peacefully on June 13, 2026, in Brunswick, Georgia. He was a devoted educator, public servant, church leader, and friend whose life was marked by faith, service, and a deep commitment to his community.

A native of Brunswick, Georgia, Bill was born to the late Benton Roosevelt Herrin and Anna Thomas Herrin. He attended local schools and graduated from Glynn Academy in 1960. Pursuing his passion for education and music, Bill earned an Associate Degree from Brewton-Parker Junior College in 1964 and a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education from Georgia Southern College in 1966. He later continued his studies through advanced coursework at Armstrong University and Georgia Southern University.

Following his education, Bill proudly served his country in the United States Navy. Stationed at Guantanamo Bay Naval Base, he served on staff as a map plotter. During his time there, he also shared his musical gifts by teaching piano lessons and serving as organist for the base chapel.

After his military service, Bill relocated to Garden City in 1970, where he began a distinguished career with the Chatham County Board of Education. At Robert W. Groves High School, he taught music, business math, and accounting. In addition to his teaching duties, he served as the school treasurer, a position he held until his retirement in 1996. Throughout his career, Bill positively influenced countless students through his dedication, wisdom, and encouragement.

In 1982, Bill made Port Wentworth his home and became deeply involved in civic leadership. He served as a Port Wentworth City Councilman from 2001 until 2019. During his years of service, he chaired numerous committees, including Planning, Recreation, Public Safety, Accounting, and Personnel. His commitment to municipal leadership earned him several honors, including recognition through the Leadership Institute for Municipal Elected Officials and the Harold F. Holtz Municipal Training Program for Elected Officials, as well as Certificates of Recognition, Excellence, Achievement, and Distinction.

Music and faith remained central throughout Bill’s life. Over the years, he faithfully served many churches as an organist and music director. Most recently, he was pianist at First Baptist Church of Port Wentworth. There, he was ordained as a deacon and served in numerous leadership roles, including Secretary, Chairman, Vice-Chairman, Sunday School Teacher, and member of various church committees. He also shared his musical talents through the Happy Hearts ministry and as a pianist for nursing home residents. In addition, Bill was an active member of the Port Wentworth Lions Club.

Perhaps one of Bill’s greatest joys in his later years was his involvement with the Port Wentworth Senior Center. Alongside his friend Ed Young, Bill recognized the need for a dedicated senior center in the community and worked tirelessly beginning in 2000 to make that vision a reality. Through his efforts, funding was secured for the facility, and even after its opening, Bill remained committed to ensuring it was a welcoming place where seniors could gather, form friendships, and enjoy fellowship. Known for his quick wit, generosity, and inclusive spirit, Bill made everyone feel valued and loved. To many, he was not only a friend but also a mentor and source of encouragement.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Olga Rebecca Herrin Sullivan and her husband, Charles; and his brother, Thomas Benton Herrin and his wife, Diana.

He is survived by his sisters, Florence A. Dees and Patsy Nell Conner, both of Brunswick, Georgia; his niece, Rebecca Ann Sullivan Haight (Adam); and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and cherished friends.

Those who knew Bill will remember him as a caring and generous man who freely gave his time, energy, friendship, and knowledge to others. His legacy of service, faith, leadership, and kindness will continue to live on in the many lives he touched.

A Celebration of Life honoring Silas William “Bill” Herrin will be held on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. in the Chapel of Baker McCullough Funeral Home, Garden City Chapel. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service, beginning at 10:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church of Port Wentworth Music Fund.

Services have been entrusted to Baker McCullough Funeral Home Garden City Chapel, 2794 US Highway 80 West, Garden City, Georgia 31408. (912)964-2862, www.bakermccullough.com

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” Matthew 25:23.