William Tomlinson

William (Bill) Tomlinson passed away on October 20, 2019 at the age of 96. Bill was born on September 28, 1923 in Madison, FL. His parents were Carlie D. and Ruby P. Tomlinson. He graduated from Madison High School and attended the University of Florida, Gainesville before joining the US Air Force in 1942. He served honorably during WWII stationed in England. He married Carolyn Van Hollingsworth on August 29, 1946 and entered Florida State University where he graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in 1948.

Bill worked as an office manager for Tenneco Oil Company in Tallahassee, FL and was transferred to Atlanta. In 1970 he became an agent with State Farm Insurance Company and retired in 1998. He won many sales awards including the prestigious Golden Triangle Award for outstanding sales accomplishments.

For 30 years, Bill was a member of the Executive Park Kiwanis Club in DeKalb County. He served as the club’s president three times during those 30 years. He was an active member of Oak Grove United Methodist Church from 1965 until his death. At Oak Grove, Bill served in many leadership capacities including President of the Graydon Sunday School Class and member of the church choir. He enjoyed sharing his love of music by leading group singing on many occasions throughout his life.

Bill was an avid sports fan, having played all sports in high school and running track for the U.S. Air Force during WWII in England. He enjoyed golf in his later years, playing at Rivermont Country Club, with the Atlanta Seniors and at Park Springs Retirement Community. In 2004, Bill and Carolyn moved to Park Springs in Stone Mountain. They enjoyed their later years together with the people there and all the activities this community life provided.

Bill’s greatest joy was his family. His positive attitude, strong faith, and zest for life is how Bill will be remembered. He was preceded in death by his wife of 69 years, Carolyn Hollingsworth Tomlinson. He is survived by his children, Don Tomlinson of Asheville, NC; Anne Tomlinson Knox and her husband Andy Knox of Thomson, Georgia; four grandchildren John Tomlinson and wife Maggie of Waxhaw, NC; Caroline Knox of Arlington, VA; Van Tomlinson and wife Christa of Fletcher, NC; and Andy Knox, Jr. and wife Tyler of Thomson, GA and seven great-grandchildren.

A Memorial Service will be held Wednesday, October 23 at 1:00pm at Oak Grove United Methodist Church, Decatur, GA followed by family visitation at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Oak Grove United Methodist Church, 1722 Oak Grove Road, Decatur, GA 30033.