Billy Swedenburg

BILLY SWEDENBURG - Billy Rudolph Swedenburg, 94, of Crawford, Mississippi, peacefully went to be with his Lord and Savior on July 26, 2026, surrounded by family.

Billy was born on May 10, 1932, in Greene County, Alabama to the late William Walter and Sarah Evelyn Swedenburg. He graduated from Lee High School before proudly serving his country in the United States Army. During his military service, Billy met the love of his life, Shirley Durham. They married soon after and shared more than 69 wonderful years together, building a life centered on faith, family, and love.

After returning home to Columbus, Billy earned his degree from Mississippi State University. Although he had opportunities in the business world, farming was in his blood. He joined his brother, Windy, in starting a dairy farm called S4 Ranch. More than business partners, they were lifelong friends, next-door neighbors, and legendary vegetable growers. They were inseparable until Windy's passing in 2019.

S4 Ranch was the place where Billy and Shirley raised their five children—four wild boys followed by the daughter they had faithfully prayed for. They couldn't have imagined a better place to raise their families together with Windy, Margie, Shelly and David.

They were devoted members of Bethesda Baptist Church, where they faithfully served for the rest of their lives. Billy's faith in Jesus Christ shaped every part of his life. At Bethesda, he served as a deacon, Sunday School teacher, song leader, and in countless other roles whenever there was a need.

His quiet faith was matched by a generous spirit. The garden was always planted with the expectation of sharing with neighbors and anyone in need. He will also be remembered for his calm, gentle nature.

In addition to his parents, Billy was preceded in death by his brothers, William Swedenburg, Winford "Windy" Swedenburg, Rex Swedenburg, and sister, Doris Swedenburg.

He is survived by his beloved "favorite redhead" and devoted wife of 69 years, Shirley Swedenburg; his children:

Scott Swedenburg and wife, Kathie; grandchildren Jake, Matt (Sarah Jane); and great-grandchildren William and Scottie.

Steve Swedenburg and wife, Mary Margaret; grandchildren Will (Betsy), Wesley (Margaret), Tyner (Emme); and great-grandchildren Sawyer, Cohen, Jones, and Swayze.

Stacy Swedenburg and wife, Tammy; grandchildren Sam (Elana), Chuck, and Jack.

Shaun Swedenburg and wife, Richane; grandchildren Steel Swedenburg (Jannah), Sydney Swedenburg, Brittany Walters, and Miranda Cranston (Michael), Slade Swedenburg; and great-grandchildren Sonny, Clemens, and Henlee.

Stephanie Swedenburg Knight and husband, Bill; grandchildren Preston (Lily) and Davis.

• A special thanks to his extraordinary caregivers - Melissa Lewis, Thelma Lucious and Mary Johnson.

Visitation will be held Wednesday July 29th at 1:00 p.m. at Bethesda Baptist Church, followed by a celebration of Billy's life at 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Bethesda Baptist Church, 1189 Bethesda Road, Crawford, MS 39743.