William Koatsworth Swope

William Koatsworth Swope, 61, of Charleston, South Carolina, passed away on Sunday, January 18, 2026.

Born on August 25, 1964, in Charleston, SC, Will was the only child of the late Alice Swope Thompson and the late William J. Swope, Jr. Will was also preceded in death by his stepfather, Raymond L. Thompson.

Will graduated from Porter-Gaud School in 1982. He was offered a football scholarship but chose to attend Vanderbilt University where he studied political science and played rugby. He obtained a Bachelor of Science in 1987. He attended the University of South Carolina School of Law and obtained his Juris Doctor in 1990. He then returned home to Charleston where he practiced law until his passing. He was a longtime member of the Exchange Club of Charleston, previously serving as manpower chairman of the Coastal Carolina Fair as part of the Club’s charitable efforts. He was a member of the German Friendly Society. He was a past member of Toastmasters and was previously a Senior DeMolay. He was a Past Master of Orange-Charles Towne Lodge No.14. He also served as Past Master of Olde Charles Towne Lodge No. 405 in 1996 and was a 32nd degree Scottish Rite Mason. His final venture was as part owner of Medici’s Italian Ristorante in North Charleston.

Will is survived by his wife of nearly 36 years, Denise Grainger Swope; his 10 godchildren and 9 god-grandchildren; his stepmother, Sherrill Stanley; and an extended family of aunts, uncles, nephews, and cousins. His family also included those who were bound not by blood but by love. He had a huge heart and was always ready with a joke. He loved sports, especially football. His greatest joy was his family. He loved being with his kids and grandkids, loudly cheering them on at every opportunity. He will be greatly missed. We will do our best to cheer on each other, the Gamecocks, the Commodores, and the Kansas City Chiefs in his stead.

A celebration of Will's life will be held at 6:00 pm on Tuesday, February 3rd, 2026 at Charleston County Masonic Association, 1285 Orange Grove Road, Charleston, SC 29407.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hook Line & Heroes, c/o Orange-Charles Towne Lodge No. 14, 1285 Orange Grove Road, Charleston, SC 29407.

Expressions of sympathy may be viewed or submitted online at mcalister-smith.com/.

Arrangements have been entrusted to McAlister-Smith Funeral and Cremation, 2501 Bees Ferry Road, Charleston, SC 29414, (843) 722-8371.