Ian William Folsom

Ian William Folsom, age 53, born on September 9, 1971, passed away on March 26 2025. At the time of his passing he was at the Langdale Hospice House, where he was well cared for. Ian was born in Valdosta, but spent most of his formative years in Forest Park and Jonesboro until his family moved back to Valdosta when he was sixteen years old. Prior to leaving the Atlanta area, he developed an interest in playing the drums. When he returned to Valdosta, he and his brother formed a band and played different venues locally. When Ian graduated from Valdosta High School he soon entered the workforce and worked at Precision Industries and the Langdale Company.

Ian then decided to further his education. He had two college degrees and was almost finished with a bachelor's degree in Psychology. While doing so, he and his mother, Carol, owned several businesses including Carol's Wallpaper, the Vineyard and Complements To The Chef. Ian also owned and ran a bar called Shooter's. He worked at Brooks Welding two separate times where he was a certified welder. Because of his love of music, he moved to Nashville Tennessee and lived there for three years. During that time, he joined a traveling band and played many venues from Minot, North Dakota to Jackson Hole Wyoming where he played at the Famous Cowboy Bar. He also played at the venue called Redrock.

After his return to Valdosta, he played an eastern ten state tour with a group from Florida. His doctor wanted Ian to write a song for him, which he did. It was produced and recorded in Moultrie by Gary Dibenedetto. Ian also wrote another song for the same doctor. He and his friend Brian Cagley recorded an eight song album under the name of Ten Cent Pistol. To enhance his drumming knowledge, his mother taught Ian how to read musical notation for drums. Ian loved his family and was one of those rare individuals who would give his last cent to someone in need.

He leaves to mourn his passing one son, River William Dean Folsom of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. William R. Folsom, his father, one brother, Alan Folsom (Julie), Uncles Griffin Folsom (Jeannie), Kenneth Folsom (Linda) Aunt Karen Pennington (Lee), Cousins Seth Pennington, Erin Rushby, Alison Alred, Megan Folsom (daughters of Fran Folsom). Ian was preceded in death by his wonderful mother, Carol Folsom, grandparents, Rev. S. G. Folsom and Leta Mae Folsom and James Ellis and Mabel Cooper.

A memorial service for Ian will be held at 1pm on Saturday, April 26, 2025 at Philadelphia Baptist Church. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 12-1pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Baptist Church of Valdosta.

Online condolences may be shared at www.mclanecares.com.

Carson McLane Funeral Home