William Folson III

William Folson II, a devoted father, grandfather, brother, veteran, nurse, and friend, passed away on June 9, 2026, at the age of 77. Throughout his life, William exemplified service, compassion, and dedication to others, leaving a lasting impact on his family, community, colleagues, and countless patients. Born on March 16, 1949, to Lovie Lee and William Folson, William was raised in a close-knit family and maintained strong bonds with his siblings throughout his life. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers Keith, Lance, Sidney, and Phillip Folson; and his beloved son, Kevin Folson. William's commitment to service began early. During his senior year of high school, he worked at Martha T. Berry Hospital before joining General Motors after graduation. In 1969, he was drafted into the United States Air Force, where he proudly served for five years and attained the rank of Technical Sergeant. His military service reflected the discipline, integrity, and dedication that became hallmarks of his character. Following his honorable discharge, William pursued a career in healthcare by attending Wayne County Community College. He graduated in 1983 with his Bachelor of Science in Nursing, became a Registered Nurse and went on to dedicate his professional life to psychiatric nursing. Throughout his career, he served at psychiatric facilities across the State of Michigan, providing compassionate care to those facing mental health challenges. He also shared his expertise with future generations of nurses, teaching psychiatric nursing practices to undergraduate students from the University of Detroit, Lawrence Technological University, and Wayne State University. William was first married to Hanni Spellellekr, and together they welcomed two sons, Kevin and Ronald. William later remarried to Catherine Goul, who remained an important part of his life's journey. Beyond his professional accomplishments, William embraced life with energy and enthusiasm. He enjoyed golfing, tennis, gardening, international travel, and spending time outdoors. He loved playing baseball with his brothers, tailgating before games, and cheering on his beloved Detroit Lions. Family was at the center of his life, and he became known for hosting memorable Fourth of July barbecues that brought relatives and friends together year after year. His charm, sense of humor, and friendly flirtatious nature ensured that he never met a stranger and rarely left a gathering without making a new friend. William leaves to cherish his memory his son, Ronald Folson; grandchildren Aisha, Inya, Laurence, and Raul; brothers Ronald and Frederick Folson; sister Carolyn Folson; sisters and brothers-in-law, former wives Hanni Spellellekr; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends. William Folson II lived a life defined by service—to his country, his patients, his students, and his family. His legacy of kindness, generosity, resilience, and love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Funeral service will be held at Jowett Funeral Home, 57737 Gratiot, New Haven, Michigan, on Wednesday, June 17, 2026 at 4:00pm. Visitation will be from 1:00pm-4:00pm.

William Folson III

March 16, 1949 - June 9, 2026