William Paul Schwartz

William Paul "Billy" Schwartz, of Ponchatoula, Louisiana, passed away at his residence with his loving family, on Friday, October 24, 2025, at the age of 79. He was born on Monday, January 7, 1946, in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Billy lost his father at a very young age but his mother, brother and sister, and a host of cousins and friends united to nurture and guide him in his early years. He served his country in Vietnam, depending on the prayers and letters of family and friends to keep him going in that tough time. Billy belonged to a brotherhood of patriots and spoke more in his later years about how his service had impacted him. He shared those memories with his close friend Carl Vicknair and his cousins Gil “Sonny” Larpenter and CD Cooper.

On July 4th, 1970 Billy married the love of his life Patsy Kendrick. For 55 years, Billy and Patsy modeled true love and genuine companionship to all who met them. They were a team - and together worked on many projects and enjoyed many fun times of travel -especially to their beloved Great Smokey Mountains. When it was almost time for their 50th anniversary, Patsy planned a special event for each month of that celebratory year. Their deep love and purposeful care for one another is a pattern for every couple. Billy and Patsy’s 2 sons and 2 grandsons have been a source of great joy and pride. They honor her for the devoted care she has provided their dad during his time of illness.

Billy retired from Dupont as a board operator. His work ethic and commitment to excellence was renowned at his workplace - as was his caring heart and enjoyment of bringing in special desserts baked by Patsy. He also worked for a time in a cabinet shop; he enjoyed the craft and art of woodworking as he created masterpieces in his home and for others.

Billy even built his own home, a beautiful example of his carpentry skills. It should also be mentioned that some of Billy’s favorite times were spent in his boat on the Tangipahoa River! He found solace in nature whether alone or with a fishing buddy (often Donald Dupont or Bing Fletcher!)

It is a comfort to Billy’s family and friends that he leaves a clear testimony of peace with his God. Billy’s faith community considers him one of the kindest and most generous souls to ever live. He was truly the pastor's right-hand man, always willing to help with anything that needed to be done, offer advice from his wealth of knowledge, or just be a friend and listening ear. His legacy of faithfulness will not be forgotten. Billy noticed others - often going out of his way to offer assistance, a compliment, or encouragement to both children and peers. If ever told he didn’t need to do something, he would say “don't take away my blessing”. His warm smile will be missed. While our hearts are hurting, we know he has "Finished His Race" with courage and is at rest in Heaven. Go rest high Mr. Billy, your work on earth is done!

Billy is survived by his wife, Patricia Kendrick Schwartz; son, William "Paul" Schwartz, son, Brian Patrick Schwartz and his fiance Stacy Adams; grandchildren, Ethan and Brennan Schwartz; sister, Peggy Miller (Larry), brother, Charles Schwartz (Glenda) and scores of additional family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry John Schwartz and Betty Mae Larpenter Schwartz; his inlaws, Rev. HL and Lillian Kendrick; and daughter-in-law, Dawn Schwartz.

Family and friends will be received at Bible Holiness Church, 24318 Highway 22 East, Ponchatoula, Louisiana, on Saturday, November 1, 2025 from 11:00 am until 1:00 pm.

The family would like to honor the care and support provided by Gulf Coast Social Services, St. Tammany Hospice, Amanda Senior Care, and the Hammond VA caregivers.