Philip William McLeroy

Philip William “Coach Mac” McLeroy, 86, he passed peacefully in his sleep with his children by his side after a short fight against stage IV bladder cancer on Wednesday, July 16, 2025. A celebration of his life will be held on Sunday, July 27, 2025. at 2:00 p.m. in the First Presbyterian Day School Gym on Coach Mac Court. Burial will follow in Macon Memorial Park Cemetery with the Rev. Chris Minton officiating, along with daughter, Gail, and longtime friend and colleague, Coach Greg Moore. The family will greet friends on Saturday, July 26, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Snow’s @ Macon Memorial Park Funeral Home. Serving as pallbearers, Lee Dawson, Matthew Thames, Joel Thames, John McLeroy, David McLeroy, Jonathan McLeroy, Marcus McLeroy, Marty Posthauer, Ty Stewart and Cole Stewart, and honorary pallbearer, Jimmy Walton.

Philip was born in Macon County to the late, Ben G. and Kate Nix McLeroy. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Helon Olmstead McLeroy. Philip was a graduate of Georgia College and a member of Lizella Baptist Church. Coach Mac started his career as a basketball coach at Lanier High School. He began teaching at First Presbyterian Day School in 1971 as a basketball coach and drivers’ education teacher retiring in 2008. Coach Mac was inducted in the Macon Sports Hall of Fame in 2009 and won a State Title in 2008 with over 500 wins during his career. He loved both high school and college sports, especially women’s basketball. He has enjoyed his retirement from coaching by fishing with his dog, Macy, and spending time with his five grandchildren.

He is survived by his children, Gail (Tommy) Stewart of Hope Mills, NC, and Lance Wayne (Hallie Neal) McLeroy of Isle of Palms, SC, five grandchildren, Hunter Kate, Ty, and Cole Stewart and Connor and William McLeroy.

Visit www.snowsmacon.com to express condolences.

Snow’s @ Macon Memorial Park has charge of the arrangements.