William F. “Bill” DeVane, age 74, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and respected community leader, passed away Wednesday, April 15, 2026, in Swainsboro. A memorial service will be held Wednesday, April 22, at 5 p.m. at the Chapel of Chapman Funeral Home with Reverends Phil Wilson and Larry Jennings officiating. Family will receive friends immediately after the service.
Honorary pallbearers are Dal Durden, Kelly Hillis, Liege Moore, Jimmy Peel, Eric Wheeler, Peyton Frye and Nelson Williams.
Born November 15, 1951, in Vienna, Bill was the son of Max and Joelyn DeVane of Americus. He graduated from Americus High School in 1970 and went on to earn a degree in business finance from Georgia Southwestern. During his college years, Bill was a proud member of the Sigma Chi Fraternity. He later continued his education as a graduate of LSU Banking School and Oklahoma Banking School, further strengthening his lifelong career in banking.
Bill began his banking career in 1974, dedicating over four decades to the profession. In 1990, he became President of the Bank of Clayton and later served as President of Spivey State Bank until his retirement in 2016. Bill’s leadership and integrity left a lasting impact on the communities he served.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Bill was deeply committed to his community. He served as past president of the Emanuel County Chamber of Commerce, the Exchange Club of Swainsboro, and was the first President of the Downtown Development Authority. Bill’s dedication to civic service reflected his passion for making a difference in the lives of those around him.
An avid sportsman, Bill enjoyed golf, both playing and watching. More than that, he enjoyed watching his son play competitive golf. Bill also enjoyed turkey and deer hunting and was a passionate supporter of the University of Georgia and Swainsboro High School football teams. His favorite place in the world was his cabin, where he cherished time spent with his family and friends, creating memories that will be treasured forever.
Mr. DeVane is survived by his beloved wife of 45 years, Vanessa DeVane, and together they built a life centered on family, faith, and shared memories; children, Cason (Elizabeth) DeVane of Swainsboro and Leslie DeVane (Brett Ford) of Albany; sister, Susan Deriso of Alpharetta; he was a proud and loving grandfather to Connor DeVane, Katherine DeVane and Tinley White, who brought him immense joy; special cousin, Logan Blanton of Carrollton; along with several nieces, nephews, family members and friends.
Bill will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his love for his family, his commitment to his community, and the quiet, steady way he influenced the lives of so many. His legacy will live on through those who knew and loved him.
The family request in lieu of flowers, memorials be made to the Shriners Hospital and St. Jude Children’s Hospital.
Chapman Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
