John Tolson

John Franklin Tolson Jr., 81, of Lookout Mountain, Georgia, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 19, 2025.

Born on November 27, 1943, in Lakeland, Florida, John was the son of the late John and Harriet Ellmaker Tolson. He honorably served his country in the United States Navy for six years and continued his service in the Navy Reserves, from which he later retired.

John was a proud alumnus of the University of Georgia, where he was a devoted member of Pi Kappa Phi fraternity. He went on to earn his law degree from the University of Florida. His legal career began at the firm of Smith-Hulsey in Jacksonville, Florida. He later served as head counsel for Florida Rock Industries before founding his own law practice, John F. Tolson & Associates, in Orange Park, Florida.

Throughout his life, John was dedicated to mentoring and guiding young men. He served as a Boy Scout leader and, in later years, became actively involved in Trail Life. His life’s passion was rooted in his faith and his family. A devoted follower of Christ, John was an active member of Pinewood Presbyterian Church in Florida and later joined the fellowship of Lookout Mountain Presbyterian Church. He loved studying God’s word and poured himself into several Bible studies and fellowship groups, including a breakfast group he started at the Common House in Chattanooga.

Though Florida was home for much of his life, John found great joy in purchasing a home on Lookout Mountain to be closer to his children and grandchildren. He cherished every moment spent with his family and was deeply involved in their lives. His legacy of faith, wisdom, and love will remain in the hearts of all who knew him.

John is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Joann Tolson; his children, Clay (Amy) Tolson, Aaron (Lisa) Tolson, Laurel (Brian) White, and Holly (Ro) Trivedi; and his eleven grandchildren: Tessa Tolson, J.T. Tolson, Parker Tolson, Kate Tolson, Janie Tolson, Lil Tolson, Sam Tolson, Aline White, Ben White, Jon White, and Tolson White.

A Celebration of Life will take place on Friday, May 9th, at Lookout Mountain Presbyterian Church. The family will receive friends during a visitation from 10:00 to 11:30 AM, prior to the service.