Forrest Wilcoxson Jr.

Forrest Holzman Wilcoxson, Jr. entered this world on Thursday, February 8, 1951, born to Forrest Sr. (deceased) of Fairburn, Georgia, and Jessie Mae Farmer Wilcoxson (deceased) of Ben Hill, Georgia. Seventy-four years, eight months, and two days ago, Forrest Sr. and Jessie welcomed a truly unique son into their family. Alongside 266,799 other souls, Forrest began his earthly journey, denoting the start of a remarkable life.
Affectionately known as "Jr." by his family, Forrest attended Anderson Park Elementary School in Atlanta. He later advanced to Charles L. Harper High School, located in the newly established Collier Heights area of Northwest Atlanta. During these formative years, Forrest adopted several nicknames, including "Groovy" and "Soul Papa," which reflected his dynamic and ever-evolving personality. His astute intellect, quick wit, charismatic charm, striking good looks, and impeccable style made him highly popular and sought after by friends, co-workers, and colleagues. Always a natural leader, Forrest was often found laughing and sharing jokes, bringing joy to those around him. He was not only a member but also a drum major of his high school's marching band, displaying his leadership and musical talents. Forrest continued to nurture his love for music by playing the tenor saxophone during his time at Clark College and frequently performed with the renowned Paul Mitchell Jazz Band.
A man of numerous talents, Forrest often found himself seeking new challenges, sometimes growing bored with achievements that others could only dream of. He earned a flawless score on his Scholastic Aptitude Test and was among a group of the first Black individuals to be hired as air traffic controllers for the now-defunct Eastern Airlines. Despite these significant accomplishments, Forrest remained humble and unfazed. Between pursuing his dreams and aiming for financial success in the shortest time possible, Forrest held positions at McCormick & Company and was a bus driver for the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority for several years. Throughout this period, he was known by other nicknames, such as "Slim," "Geoff," and "Jazzy." It is said that Forrest spent the past decade working at various jazz and night clubs in Texas and Atlanta, continuing to share his dynamic personality, and love for music and entertainment.
Forrest departed this earthly realm on Tuesday, November 11, 2025. He leaves behind two sisters, Cheryl Durden (Russell) and Alycia Robinson (David); two nieces, Jessica Durden and Briana Robinson; and one great-niece, Niyah Durden. Forrest will be fondly remembered and dearly missed by cousins, extended family, and many long-term friends whose lives he touched with his warmth, humor, and hypnotic spirit.