Ken Courson

Ken Courson,72, of Valdosta died peacefully at home March 29, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Valdosta on October 5, 1950, he was the son of Lee L and Otha Watley Courson. He was a graduate of Lowndes County High School and of the Valdosta Technical Institute Machine Technology Program. He then served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War and later worked as a machinist at Fairbanks-Morse, from which he retired. Ken was a faithful member of Gateway Baptist Church where he served as chairman of several committees.

He is survived by three daughters, Angie Hester, Brandi Elsberry (Matt), and Kim Spooner (Jason), all of Valdosta; grandchildren, Caitlin Hester; Dylan Elsberry, Dalton Elsberry, Gavin Elsberry, and Sarah Elsberry, Taylor Courson, Kenley Courson, great grandson, Easton Elsberry, and the great grandbaby Courson to-be, all of Valdosta.

He is survived also by brothers, John Courson of Valdosta and Jimmy Courson of Macon, and sister-in-law, Rachel Courson, sisters-in-law Jeanette Stalvey, Sandra Easler (Waylon), brothers-in-law Irvin Coody (Fran), David Coody (Sandy), and Phillip Coody, all of Valdosta, and numerous nieces and nephews, and many life-long friends.

Ken was predeceased by Bonnie Courson, his wife of 47 years and by his brother Lloyd Courson, and sister, Joyce Frush.

The family extends sincere thanks to Teresa Spooner, a very special nurse and dearly loved friend, who cared for both Bonnie and Ken.

Visitation will be held at Gateway Baptist Church, Valdosta, on Saturday, April 1, 2023, from 4 until 5 p.m. The memorial service will begin at 5 p.m. with retired Reverend Jack Seiverd officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Camp Rock, 4407 Rocky Ford Road, Valdosta, GA 31601, or online at camprockga.org.

Known as the man with the cowboy hat and boots, Ken Courson was easily identified. He was an outdoorsman who loved to work on machinery. He proudly supported all his grandchildren’s activities, gladly mentoring and helping others. He was a loving, devoted husband who deeply felt the loss of his wife. A man of integrity, he was well respected in the community and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.