Dewey Wheeler Alverson, Jr.

Dewey Wheeler Alverson Jr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, coach, and mentor, passed away on April 5, 2026, at the age of 92. Born on March 10, 1934, in Rossville, Georgia, Dewey lived a full and meaningful life defined by dedication to family, faith, and the countless young men he influenced through coaching.

Dewey was the oldest of three sons born to Dewey and Irene Alverson, both of whom preceded him in death, along with his brother Gary Alverson. He is survived by his brother Wayne Alverson and wife Sonja, and his sister-in-law Lois Ann.

A gifted athlete in his youth, Dewey excelled in football, baseball, and basketball at Lakeview High School before attending Notre Dame Prep and later Tennessee Tech University. At Tennessee Tech, he not only met the love of his life, Joyce, but also left his mark as an outstanding baseball player, still holding the Ohio Valley Conference career batting average record (.462 in 1955–56) and later being named to the university’s All-Century Baseball Team in 2023.

Dewey and Joyce married in 1954, beginning a loving partnership that spanned more than 71 years. Together they built a family rooted in love, loyalty, and unwavering support. He is survived by his devoted wife Joyce; his daughter Kelly (Thad) McCormack; his son Dusty Alverson; six grandchildren—Ty (Kylan), Matt (Caroline), Carson, Drew (Alyson) McCormack, Chandler and Julia Alverson; and three great-grandchildren.

For 30 years, Dewey dedicated his life to coaching high school football in Georgia, leaving a lasting legacy both on and off the field. His most notable tenure came at Southwest DeKalb High School, where he served as head coach from 1959 to 1978. Under his leadership, the Panthers compiled a remarkable 129-76-6 record. Thirteen of his twenty teams had winning seasons, and two captured region championships.

The pinnacle of his coaching career came in 1972, when Southwest DeKalb won the Class AA State Championship, defeating Gainesville 16-12 in a thrilling come-from-behind victory to cap a 13-1 season. In recognition of his contributions, Dewey was inducted into the Southwest DeKalb Athletic Hall of Fame in 2018.

After leaving Southwest DeKalb, Dewey took on a new challenge at Johnson High School in Gainesville, Georgia. Over his tenure, he guided the Knights to three winning seasons, including their first in over a decade. His time at Johnson reflected his philosophy: success was not just measured in wins, but in growth, discipline, and effort.

Across both programs, Dewey finished with an overall coaching record of 161-145-8.

Known for his calm demeanor, sharp sense of style, and signature houndstooth hat, Dewey brought quiet confidence to everything he did. His daughter Kelly fondly recalled his guiding words: “Act like you belong here. Act like you are comfortable at the top. Act as if every victory is expected.” He led with consistency, discipline, and belief—values that shaped generations of young athletes.

Dewey’s players remembered him as more than a coach. He was a mentor, a teacher, and a steady presence in their lives. He emphasized teamwork, accountability, and character, often reminding his players that it was not about individual success, but about the team. Many credited him with influencing not only their athletic careers but their lives beyond the field.

Outside of football, Dewey had a deep love for fishing, a pastime that brought him great joy and peace. It was this love that ultimately led him to Gainesville, where he spent many cherished days on the water.

Even in his later years, Dewey found joy in reconnecting with former players, recalling their games, their strengths, and the memories they shared. These relationships remained a source of pride and happiness throughout his life.

Above all, Dewey was a family man. To his daughter Kelly, he was a constant source of love and encouragement. “My dad was a great man,” she said. “He was a coach and mentor to many, but to me, he was a loving father who never quit loving us. The best gift he gave us was loving our mom always.”

Dewey Alverson’s legacy is not only found in his impressive coaching record, but in the lives he touched, the values he instilled, and the love he gave so freely. While victories on the field mattered, it was the lives he touched that truly defined his legacy.

As scripture reminds us: “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 P.M. Friday, April 10, 2026 at Memorial Park South Chapel with interment following at Memorial Park South Cemetery. David Simpson, minister of Lanier Christian Church, will officiate. The family will receive friends from 5:00 to 8:00 P.M. Thursday, April 9, 2026 at Memorial Park South Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks donations be made to the Fellowship of Christian Athletes or Lanier Christian Church. 

Memorial Park South Funeral Home, 4121 Falcon Parkway Flowery Branch, GA 30542 is in charge of arrangements. Send online condolences to www.memorialparkfuneralhomes.com.

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