William Eugene South

February 10, 1926 - March 8, 2025*

William Eugene South, 99, of Smith Station, Alabama, peacefully departed our world on March 8, 2025. Born on February 10, 1926, in Atlanta to Alice McDaniel Moss and Bonnie Earl South, William lived a life dedicated to beauty, creativity, and mentorship. Known for his vibrant smile and warm welcome, William had a gift for making everyone who crossed his path feel special and valued.

After honorably serving in the Navy as a ship barber and cook, William began what would become a long and distinguished career in the hair styling industry in Columbus, Georgia. His passion and commitment to his craft led him to serve as chair for the Georgia Hair Fashion Committee and Style Director for the Hairdressers Association, all while successfully operating three salons and a cosmetology school. Throughout his career, William, also known as "The Godfather of Hair," used his remarkable talent to foster and inspire countless stylists, launching many successful careers in the industry.

When not transforming lives in the salon, William could be found nurturing and creating beautiful gardens and landscapes, bringing the same artistic vision to nature that he brought to hairstyling. His passion and legendary flair for hairstyling continued until his retirement at age 93, earning him recognition as the oldest practicing hairdresser in the nation. William also loved going to performances at the Fox Theatre in Atlanta and the River Center in Columbus.

William is survived by his beloved wife Flor-Dalisa South; daughters Daphne Brown (Paul), Phyllis Noland (Bob), Mary Santaliz, and Cynthia Griffin (Bruce), all of Sarasota; son Jeff South of Atlanta; stepdaughter Natalie Faircloth (Sam) of Columbus; stepson Greg Jones (Trisha) of Seattle, WA; Mark Gannon (Kathie); grandchildren Joyce Dial (Joe), Coaty Brown, Bobby Noland, Sean Noland, Jamison Noland (Shannon), Christy Santaliz, Robert Santaliz (Tabitha), Jenna Dye (Chris), Vanessa Alexander (Kirk), Jason Griffin (Samantha), Cheyenne Faircloth, and Aiden Faircloth; step-grandsons Christopher (Hannah) and Kenny; 21 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren; and niece Bonnie Davenport.

He was preceded in death by his parents, grandson Matthew Brown, and stepson Anthony Rivera.

Services to celebrate William's extraordinary life will be held Monday, April 28, 2025, at 11:00 am at St. Thomas Episcopal Church 2100 Hilton Ave., Columbus, Georgia 31906 with Reverend Grace Burton-Edwards officiating. Reception to follow after the service at the church. The family invites those who wish to honor his memory to plant a flower or tree in his name, continuing his legacy of creating beauty in the world. Share Obituary for William Eugene South.