Born July 23, 1954 in Blackshear, Sweat lived in Pierce County all his life. He was a 1972 graduate of Blackshear High School. Following graduation, Sweat went right to work for Gilman Building Products — later West Fraser — retiring after 39-and-a half years of service.

He was a member of the Blackshear Masonic Lodge, #205 where he had served as Past Mast er. Sweat loved to fish, watch Georgia Bulldog football, and watch westerns, especially Gunsmoke. Sweat was a member of Beulah Baptist Church.

He was the son of the late Alfred Dural and Margaret Griner Sweat, Sr. He was also preceded in death by a sister-in-law, Marilynn Mobley; and two brothers-in-law, James Norris and Neil Tanner.

Survivors include his wife of 47 years, Janice Tanner Sweat of Alma; a sister-in-law, Marikaye Hyers of Blackshear; and several nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

A funeral service will be held today (Wednesday, March 26) at 3 p.m., from the Beulah Baptist Church with the Rev. Matt Tuttle and Brother Jimmy Howard presiding.

Interment will be in the church cemetery with Masonic rites.

Sympathy may be expressed by signing the online register at http://www.pearsondial. com.

Pearson-Dial Funeral Home of Blackshear is in charge of arrangements.