Gary Lyons Toulson
The Pro-Am Tournament was established in 2023 to honor Gary Toulson, Cherokee Country Club’s Head Golf Professional Emeritus. During his 35-year tenure at Cherokee, Gary’s passion for teaching and mentorship left a lasting impact on generations of golfers and their families. Many of his students achieved success at the collegiate, amateur, and professional levels, while others followed in his footsteps, becoming golf professionals and touring players themselves.
Gary’s dedication, leadership, and exceptional work ethic have defined a distinguished career that includes recognition as Tennessee Teaching Professional of the Year, Tennessee PGA Player of the Year, and Tennessee PGA President. He was also named one of Golf Digest’s Top 200 Golf Teachers in America and is a two-time Tennessee PGA Senior Champion. Most recently, he was inducted into the 2025 Greater Knoxville Sports Hall of Fame, adding to an impressive list of tournament victories, honors, and contributions to the game of golf.
In 2006, Gary was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Over the years, the disease became increasingly debilitating, preventing him from enjoying the fellowship, competitive spirit, and game he truly loved. In his final years, Gary found purpose in helping others affected by Parkinson’s disease by raising funds to support programs for patients and their caregivers. Although Gary passed away on February 8, 2025, his legacy of service and compassion continues through the Gary Toulson Pro-Am Invitational Golf Tournament. We invite you to honor his memory by supporting the tournament as a player, sponsor, or luncheon attendee. All net proceeds benefit PJ Parkinson’s Support. Thank you for helping carry forward Gary’s commitment to improving the lives of those living with Parkinson’s disease and their families.
