William Cooper Gatch, a 23-year-old from Statesboro, Georgia, is being remembered as a compassionate young man, dedicated student, and aspiring educator whose life was rooted in service, hard work, and a deep love for the outdoors.
He passed away on April 6, 2026, following a tragic fall while hiking at Sleeping Giant State Park.
Born on October 24, 2002, to Jason Ashley and Dr. Delena Bell Gatch, William grew up in a close-knit family that remained central to his life.
He graduated from Southeast Bulloch High School in 2021 and was on the verge of completing his degree in Agricultural Education at the University of Georgia, a milestone he had worked diligently toward and was expected to reach this spring.
Those who knew William often point to two defining traits that shaped his life: his natural curiosity and his genuine care for others.
He had a knack for “piddling,” as loved ones described it, always working with his hands, fixing things, and figuring out how they worked.
That curiosity blended seamlessly with his desire to help others, ultimately guiding him toward a future in education.
During his final semester, he was student teaching at Madison County High School, where he took pride in mentoring students and following their progress in FFA programs.
He frequently shared their successes with his family, reflecting the pride he took not just in his own achievements, but in theirs.
Before stepping into the classroom, William gained experience through a variety of jobs that reflected both his work ethic and versatility.
He worked at the Shooting Sports Education Center at Georgia Southern University, an experience that helped spark his passion for working with young people.
He also took on roles in lawn care, maintenance, dredging, and retail, building a wide range of skills and practical knowledge. Whether repairing equipment or troubleshooting a stubborn two-stroke motor, William was known as someone who could fix just about anything.
Outside of work and school, William found peace in nature. Fishing, in particular, was a constant in his life.
He spent countless hours at his grandparents’ pond catching largemouth bass and often visited the Ogeechee River whenever he returned home from Athens.
Being outdoors was more than a hobby for him. It was a place of reflection, faith, and calm, something his family says remained true even in his final moments.
His passing has left a profound void for those who loved him. He is survived by his parents, his sister Whitley Gatch, his aunt Dora Bell, and his grandmother Janice Cowart, all of Statesboro.
Friends and family continue to share memories that highlight his kindness, humor, and willingness to lend a hand wherever needed.
Authorities have indicated that the incident at Sleeping Giant State Park appears to have been accidental, with emergency responders arriving after reports of a fall from an unmarked trail. Despite their efforts, William died at the scene from his injuries.
In honoring his life, the family has asked that memorial contributions be made to the Georgia FFA Foundation, supporting the same agricultural education programs that meant so much to him.
It is a fitting tribute to a young man who believed deeply in teaching, mentorship, and the potential of the next generation.
William Gatch’s life, though brief, was marked by purpose, generosity, and a quiet determination to make a difference. His memory will continue to live on through the lives he touched, the students he inspired, and the family who loved him deeply.
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