Dwight Willard Holshouser, 96, of Greensboro passed away on Tuesday, May 1, 2018. Dwight was born in Rowan County on May 27, 1921 to Luther Alexander and Sally Ann Holshouser. In addition to his parents Dwight was preceded in death by his first wife, Jean Shoaf Holshouser and all eight of his siblings. He is survived by his wife, Edith Kenerly Holshouser; three daughters, Elizabeth Shepard (Gary) of Florida; Gloria Hatfield (David) of Greensboro; Susan Schoenberg (Terry) of Florida; grandchildren, Alex Reece, Amy Seung, Jill Hatfield, and Grace Miller; and ten great grandchildren.
Dwight graduated from Catawba College and received his Master’s Degree from George Peabody College at Vanderbilt, Nashville. He had a great love of and ability in athletics. He played football and was named Little All American at Catawba College and is in Catawba’s Hall of Fame. He played professional football for the Charlotte Clippers. He coached high school football in Asheville and Lumberton, taking the Lumberton team all the way to the State Finals. He was an avid golfer and made several holes in one.
He was a proud veteran of World War II, serving in the Navy and afterward became a member of the Navy Reserves, retiring after 20 years. He enjoyed sharing the story of becoming a Royal Shellback when he crossed the equator. He was privileged to go to Washington, DC on the Flight of Honor to visit the memorials—a day he never forgot!
Dwight worked at Burlington Industries as a Human Resources Manager, retiring after 31 years. He was a long time member of Westminster Presbyterian Church in Greensboro. He taught Sunday school and was an Elder. He volunteered for Mobile Meals and Hospice and Palliative Care of Greensboro.
Many happy moments were shared with family around the harmonica which he played beautifully. He delighted in entertaining his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren (some of whom wish to learn how to play). One of his personal favorite pastimes was puffing his pipe. He carried this pleasure throughout life, even until his last days.
He was a kind, caring soul, a friend and mentor. He will be sorely missed by all whose lives he touched.
A graveside service will be held at 10:00 am on Friday, May 11, 2018 at Westminster Gardens Cemetery followed by a celebration of life at 11:00 am at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 3906 W. Friendly Ave., Greensboro, NC 27410.
Memorial contributions may be made to Westminster Presbyterian Church or Hospice and Palliative Care of Greensboro, 2500 Summit Ave., Greensboro, NC 27405.
Online condolences may be offered at www.haneslineberryfuneralhomes.com. Hanes-Lineberry N. Elm chapel is assisting the Holshouser family.
