William Edward Vinson

William Edward “Ed” Vinson, 78, passed away on August 17, 2026.

Originally from Atlanta, Georgia, Ed lived with his family in Stone Mountain and Tucker, and ultimately with his wife, Gail, in a cabin in Blue Ridge, Georgia.

Ed will be remembered for his impossibly kind heart, his perfectly told epic stories, and his wonderful laugh. Knowing Ed and being loved by him inspired those close to him to be the best people they could be. His sarcastic and classically off-color brand of humor amused and, at times, shocked everyone he knew. He was an incredible son, brother, husband, father, and grandfather, as well as a world-class Santa.

Every Christmas season, his spectacular costume, perfect snow-white beard, rosy cheeks, and glowing personality inspired and charmed children throughout the Atlanta area. He never met a stranger and never willingly ended a conversation. Ed will always be remembered because he was simply impossible to forget.

Ed treasured 57 years of marriage to his loving wife, Gail. Together, they raised two loving sons, weathered hard times, enjoyed each other’s company, and made each other laugh.

Ed is survived by his wife, Gail Vinson; his sons, Charlie Vinson and his wife, Rebekah, and Adam Vinson and his wife, Kendra; his sisters, Phoebe Stephens, Sallie Whitman, and Celeste Crane; and his grandchildren, Salem, Maxwell, and Harper Vinson.