George Willard Pollock

George Willard Pollock, 74, died peacefully at his home in Ransom Canyon after a courageous battle with cancer. George was born on November 3, 1940, in Stanton, Texas, to Willard Paul Pollock and Ila Edith Castleberry. He had one sister, Charlotte Pollock Park, whom he adored.

He grew up in Lorenzo, Texas, and graduated from Lorenzo High School in 1959. His college career began with having received a basketball scholarship to West Texas State University, where he played for one year. He then transferred to Baylor University, where he would receive his Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts degrees in 1963 and 1966, respectively. Immediately following, he taught English at Texas Christian University for several years. After marrying Jan McNeill in 1968, he moved back to Lubbock to begin his work on his Doctorate degree at Texas Tech University, which he completed in 1974. While in Lubbock, his daughter Shelly Pollock Wilson, was born in 1969. This, he often said, was his proudest accomplishment while on earth.

George also taught English at Mountain View College in Dallas, but he eventually settled at Blinn College in Brenham, where he would retire after 23 years of service. Dr. Pollock's classes were extremely popular and always had a waiting list. His passion for teaching, as well as his creativity in the classroom, earned him countless awards and recognitions. He retired from teaching in 2007 and moved to the home he cherished immensely in Ransom Canyon. In addition to teaching, George was a gifted musician, singer, and songwriter. One of his most noted accomplishments was writing a song that was recorded by Waylon Jennings. He had several other songs published during his career, as well. Listening to George sing and play guitar was a blessing to anyone who knew him.

George is survived by his daughter Shelly Pollock Wilson, son-in-law Michael Wilson, and the six grandchildren (and one grandson-in-law) who brought him immense joy: Alyssa Wilson Grady, her husband Daniel Grady, and Trevor, Anna, Conner, Ava, and Keller Wilson. He is also survived by his sister Charlotte Park, nephews Ed Reynolds and partner Brad Mayer, Blake Reynolds and wife Marjorie, and his great-nephew Joel Reynolds, as well as many cousins and extended family members. In addition to his natural family, George had many close friends who were like family to him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Willard and Ila Pollock.

Online condolences may be offered at www.resthavenfuneralhome.com