William F. Heitmann, Jr. (Bill), 81, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours on Monday, June 30, 2025, at PruittHealth in Savannah, GA.

Bill was born in Savannah but spent his entire life in Thunderbolt. He was known as a gentle giant who carried a big stick. He was a retired Vice-President of Great Dane Trailers and previously served as an Alderman for the Town of Thunderbolt, as well as a Volunteer Firefighter. Bill was also a member of the Quarterback Club and the Thunderbolt Men’s Club. He was of the Baptist faith. 

He was preceded in death by his devoted wife, Avalyn Fisher Heitmann; son, Freddie Heitmann; and his parents, William F. and Irma Heitmann.

Surviving are his loving sister, Marguerite Lee (Aubrey) of Woodstock, GA;  nephew, W.R. Hughes, Jr. (Nancy) of Shellman Bluff, GA; and a niece, Kimberly Ittel (John) of Canton, GA.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 3, 2025 in Forest Lawn Memory Gardens. 

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made in Bill’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN.