Billy Eugene Templeton

Billy Eugene Templeton, “ Coach T” passed away March 29, 2025 at his home at “The Waterford” in Ridgeland Mississippi surrounded by his family from a brief illness. He was born April 13, 1936 in Hazelhurst, MS.

He was the son of Lauren Vann and Lucille Templeton and they made their home in Utica, Mississippi where Coach grew up. He graduated in 1954 from Utica High school. He attended University of Mississippi 1954-1958 when he graduated with a Bachelor's Degree. While at Ole Miss he played football under Coach Johnny Vault as a Tight End and they went on to be the 1958 Sugar Bowl Champions. After his time at Ole Miss he was drafted to play for the Philadelphia Eagles. After his pro football career ended he returned home to become the head football coach at Forest Hill High school. He obtained his Masters Degree from Jackson State University. He was a teacher and Coach at Forest Hill for 33 years where he retired. After his retirement he went to work for Coca Cola Company and several years and later retired again.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and brother Tom Templeton, and sister Marjorie Keys.

He leaves behind a long time companion of 35 years Carol Fitzgerald of Ridgeland MS. He has two sons, Bobby Templeton (AnneMarie) and Bradley Templeton (Michelle Templeton) and one grandson Wilson Lauren Templeton, all of Madison, MS.

His sister Barbara McGuffey Ross (Jack) and her daughters Teresa Stevens (Roger) and Melissa Hinton (Chris). As well as Tom Templeton’s surviving daughter Tamie McCaffrey (Alton).

A visitation for Billy will be held Thursday, April 3, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Parkway Funeral Home, 1161 Highland Colony Pkwy, Ridgeland, Mississippi 39157. He will later be laid to rest with a small family ceremony in Utica MS.