Garson Hemon Burns, Jr.

Garson Hemon Burns, Jr. of Hendersonville, NC passed away peacefully on June 12, 2021 at his home, surrounded by love.  Garson was born on June 2, 1932 in Tryon, NC.  He was the son of the late Garson Hemon Burns, Sr. and Stella Burrell Burns. He was preceded in death by his two sisters, Macy Burns and Marie Bell; and his brother, Jerry Burns. Garson has one surviving sister, Margaret Wilson; and four brothers and four sisters-in-law, James & Judy, Johnny & Sue, Don & Gail, and Harold & Candace. He loved his many nieces and nephews and their children.

Garson is survived by his loving wife, Joan, and her two children, Susan and James.  He was also a wonderful grandfather to Susan’s three children, Kellie, Maggie and Tucker; and great-grandfather to Aspen.

Garson served in the United States Navy from 1950-1954.  He was a graduate of Blanton’s Business College in Asheville, NC.  He retired as co-owner of Asheville Paving Company.  Garson was a member of First Baptist Church of Hendersonville, NC.

Garson’s passions included spending time with family and playing golf. Garson learned the game with his brothers at the Tryon Country Club and became an excellent player. He excelled on the golf team at Tryon High School and went on to win many club championships at the Tryon and Hendersonville Country Clubs, where he was also a member. He loved playing in Four-ball golf tournaments with his brothers and his many friends. Each and every year he looked forward to attending the Master’s Golf Tournament.

Before Garson died, he expressed his gratitude for the care he received from the medical community.  One kind lady in particular, Judy Phillips at Messino Care Center, was helpful, kind, and encouraging through Garson’s cancer journey.

A special thank you to Shaelagh Higgins of Careheartedly for providing outstanding care and a love for the family during this difficult time along with her teammates.  Four Seasons Hospice was amazing with their comprehensive care and demonstration of compassion.

The funeral service to celebrate Garson’s life will be held at Shuler Funeral Home in Hendersonville on Saturday, June 19, 2021 at 11am officiated by Reverend Scoggins of First Baptist Church of Hendersonville.  The family will receive friends and family for one hour before the service at the funeral home.  Due to scheduling conflicts, the interment will be at Western Carolina State Veteran’s Cemetery, Black Mountain, NC at noon on June 21, 2021.

Memorials may be made to Four Seasons Hospice, First Baptist Church of Hendersonville, or to a charity of your choice.