Rev. Dr. William Paul Carlson

The Reverend D octor, William Paul Carlson peacefully passed away at Rapha Residential Care surrounded by his children on February 13, 2019.  Dr. Carlson was born in Savanah, Georgia to Philip G. Carlson and Bertha Howard Carlson on November 4, 1934.  Services will be held on Sunday, February 17, 2019 at 2:00 at Trenholm Road United Methodist Church followed by visitation with the family.

Dr. Carlson received his undergraduate degree in History from Wofford College, his Master of Divinity from Duke University, and his Doctorate in Sacred Theology from Emory University , where he graduated Magna Cum Laude .  He began the first Christian m arriage and family counseling service, The Pastoral Counseling and Referral Service at Trenholm Road United Methodist Church in 1969.  He retired from the Counseling Center and his private practice, The Columbia Institute of Therapeutic Awareness.  Dr. Carlson was at his best when he was serving others.  He taught his children to care and always reach out to those in need. Dr. Carlson was known for his kind heart , making others laugh and for loudly singing his favorite hymns.

Left to cherish his m emory are his children, Celeste Carlson, Paula Carlson Prosser, and William Scott Carlson (Teresa). Five grandchildren, Matthew Prosser, Karen Prosser, Connor Carlson, Keaton Carlson, Caroline Carlson and 3 Great Granddaughters Ardyn , Bryleigh , and Aubrey and several nieces and nephews. He was proceeded in death by his parents, and two brothers – Philip Carlson, Jr. and Walter Carlson.

The family would like to express their appreciation to Rapha Residential Care and Regency/Southern Care Hospice for all the compassion, love and care they provided Dr. Paul. In lieu of flowers, the family request that m emorial s be made to: Salkehatchie Summer Service ; 4908 Colonial Dr ive; Columbia SC 29203 or at Salkehatchie .org. If you are writing a check please note it is a “Memorial for W. Paul Carlson”.