ATHENS – Lonnie Leroy “Sonny” Williamson, 74, (Redstone Community), entered into rest Wednesday, December 18, 2013.
Mr. Williamson was born in Jackson County, the son of the late Lonnie and Genevieve Smith Williamson, and was a member of the Redstone Methodist Church. He graduated from the University of Georgia after obtaining a Masters Degree in Wildlife Management, a BS Degree in Journalism and Literature, did post graduate work at the University of Maryland in economics, and retired as vice president of the Wildlife Management Institute after 30 years. Mr. Williamson was an accomplished writer having written for such magazines as Outdoor Life, and also served on the Outdoor Writers Association of America Board of Directors 1985-1987, president, 1991-1992, and board chairman, 1993. “Sonny,” as he was affectionately addressed by family and friends, was preceded by sisters, Betty Jo Pinson and Juanita Williamson.
Survivors include his wife, Donna Wood, Athens; son and daughter-in-law, Tony and Tammy Williamson, Athens; daughter and son-in-law, Robin and David Buchanan, Lafayette, La.; sister and brother-in-law, Yvonne Williamson Wilkes and Ray Wilkes, Athens; five grandchildren, Sam Williamson, Grace Ann Williamson, Sally Pat Williamson, Sydnee Belle Buchanan, and Bailey Buchanan; and several nieces and nephews.
Memorial services will be held at 12 p.m. Saturday, December 21, from the chapel of Evans Funeral Home with the Rev. Bryce Behnke officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Saturday from 10 to 12 prior to the services.
Memorials may be made to the St. Mary’s Auxiliary Love Lights, 1230 Baxter St., Athens, GA 30606.
Evans Funeral Home, Jefferson, is in charge of arrangements.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.evansfuneralhomeinc.com
