Dr. Ronald E. Gholson

Dr. Ronald E. Gholson, age 79, of Charleston, IL (formerly of Broughton, IL) passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones at 12:38 p.m. on Tuesday, February 27, 2024. He was born April 5, 1944, the son of Rex Roberts and Mary Ann (Turpin) Gholson at Ferrell Hospital in Eldorado, IL. He was previously married to Mary Helen Kane where they were blessed with their two wonderful children.

Survivors include his children, daughter, Meredith Denise Boner (Michael) of Charleston, IL and son, Ashley Kane Gholson (Aimee) of Mattoon, IL; grandchildren, Katelyn Lee Gholson of Pekin, IL and Chase Dawson Clough of Charleston, IL; sister, Phylis Ann Cox of Marion, IL; life-long friend, Dr. Carol Marie Helwig of Charleston, IL; nieces, Christine Mead of Vienna, IL, Carolyn Foster (Don) of Arizona, and Ronda Ego of Marion, IL; nephews, Roger Gholson of Arizona and Rodney Gholson (Kari Beth) of Vienna, IL; and several great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; maternal grandparents, Nathan Everett and Nellie Turpin; paternal grandparents, Charlie and Grace Gholson; brothers, Philip Fred and Rev. William Gholson; sister-in-law, Pauline Gholson; brothers-in-law, Ronnie Ego and Robert R. “Bob” Cox; and niece, Donna Kay Ego.

Ron's educational journey began at Broughton Grade School, a two-room school, for two years before transitioning to Broughton Elementary and later Eldorado High School for his secondary education. Following high school graduation, he pursued higher education at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, where he obtained both his Bachelor's and Master's degrees in science in Secondary Education. Undeterred by the challenges of advanced study, Ron continued his academic pursuits at SIU Carbondale, ultimately earning a PhD in a related field, solidifying his dedication to education and his commitment to scholarly achievement.

Ron embarked on his professional career as an educator, spending twelve years teaching history at Norris City High School. During this time, he not only imparted historical knowledge to his students, immersed himself in directing various high school plays, and organized trips for high school seniors to Washington D.C. and other historical sites along the east coast. His dedication extended beyond the classroom as he worked closely with the State of Illinois History Fair. Ron's impact was profound, evident in the recognition he received from his students.  

In 1976, he joined the faculty in the College of Education at Eastern Illinois University. Dr. Gholson taught courses to perspective students, who anticipated teaching at the secondary level. In addition to his instructional duties, he provided guidance and counseling to both undergraduate and graduate students, nurturing their development as future educators. Throughout his tenure at EIU, Ron was actively engaged in various service activities, including off-campus coursework and significant involvement in organizing the Illinois History Fairs hosted by EIU. It was during this time that he crossed paths with Dr. Carol Helwig, with whom he formed a lifelong companionship. Ron's dedication and contributions were recognized upon his retirement, as he was granted the title of Professor Emeritus in 2001.

In retirement, Ron enjoyed traveling with Carol, gardening both vegetables and beautiful flowers, and spending time with his children, grandchildren, and other family and friends. Ron cherished the friendships he made with many of his former classmates and colleagues.  

Funeral service will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 5, 2024 at Adams Funeral Chapel with Reverend Mary Wright officiating. Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. prior to the service at Adams Funeral Chapel, 2330 Shawnee Drive, Charleston, IL 61920.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 6, 2024 in Norris City, IL with Rodney Gholson officiating. Masonic Rites will be accorded. Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. prior to service at Campbell Funeral Home, 201 E. Main Street, Norris City, IL 62869. Entombment will follow at Hickory Hill Cemetery in Walpole, IL.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to SIU Foundation c/o Rex and Mary Ann Gholson Scholarship Endowment, 1235 Douglas Dr., Carbondale, IL 62901 or the EIU Foundation c/o David Frank Tanner/Ronald Eugene Gholson Endowed Fund Celebrating the “Goodness” of Music, 860 W. Lincoln Ave., Charleston, IL 61920

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