Willis Garland Gholson

Willis Garland (Poppa) Gholson, age 84, of Water Valley, MS died peacefully Saturday, June 15, 2019 at the Veterans Home in Oxford, MS. He was born December 21, 1934 in Water Valley to the late Willis and Willie Rubean (Madden) Gholson and worked more than twenty five years in the school system, among many things, teaching Vo-tech. His joys were many, which included hunting, woodworking, watching Gunsmoke, Jeopardy, and Braves baseball. But absolutely nothing compared to spending time with the family he adored. Until his health began to fail, Garland was a faithful student of God’s Word and a member of Bethel Baptist Church.
While in high school, Garland's fascination led him to play on a local Semi-Pro baseball team called the Water Valley Colonels.
After high school, Garland joined, and spent three years in the Army and became a part of the Elite Airborne division. While enlisted, Garland’s continued love for baseball had him to playing on the Fort Campbell post baseball team where he won the post batting championship 2 years in a row.

Following his military service, Garland received a scholarship to Mississippi State to play baseball where he played numerous infield positions. During this time, he received a Masters in School Administration and Guidance. Among his many accomplishments, he also found time to get his pilot’s license.

Garland is survived by his wife of 36 years, Nell Gholson; one son, Bill Boydston (Donna) of Lake Claremont, MS; four daughters, DeeDee Lomenick (Richie), Amy Blake (Larry) all of Blue Springs, MS, Anita Chapman (Freddie) of Grenada, MS, and Marilyn Rotenberry (Perry) of Water Valley, MS; one brother, Jim Gholson (Linda) of Water Valley, MS; two sisters, Pat Wilbourn of Bossier City, LA; Annis Gholson of Water Valley, MS; as well as eight grandchildren, 5 great grand children and un-numbered friends who referred to Garland as “Poppa“.

Along with his parents, Garland was preceded in death by one sister, Wanda Lee Gholson.

Visitation is planned for Tuesday, June 18, 2019 at Seven Oaks Funeral Home from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM. A second visitation will be from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM with services immediately following in the Henry Chapel of Seven Oaks with Bro. Owen Riddick officiating. Jim Gholson will offer the eulogy. Burial will be in Bethel Cemetery with Freddie Chapman, Caleb Beard, Cameron Chapman, Tim Gholson, Bill Boydston and Perry Crawford serving as pallbearers.

Family asks, in lieu of flowers, please send memorials to Volunteers for Veterans 642 N. 14th St. Unit 8, Oxford, MS 38655