By Staff
Curtis Clayton Toler died peacefully in his home on August 1, 2009, after an eight month battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his family and friends as were his wishes.
A funeral service will be held 11 a.m. today at Paul Funeral Home in Washington officiated by Rev. Gary Murphree. Burial will follow in Oakdale Cemetery. David Clark, Jr., Billy Bowen, Ben Woolard, CA Nelson, Marty Martikke, Fred Toler, Derek Toler and Anthony Clark will serve as pallbearers. Taylor Koonce, AJ Cartwright, David Carter, Jr., Aaron Varner, Chase Hiatt, Norman Hiatt, William Roger Mills-Koonce and Clyde Cartwright will serve as honorary pallbearers.
Curtis was born in Blounts Creek on July 11, 1932 to William Edward Toler and Annie Elizabeth Lewis Toler both of whom preceded him in death. Curtis leaves behind his adored wife and companion of 54 years Marie Owens Toler. He was a faithful father and best friend to his two children Graham Keith Toler and friend Lucia Laudisio and daughter La Donna Toler Mitchell and husband Michael Lee Mitchell. He cherished his sisters Sheila Clark and her husband David Clark of Washington, Jan Mullen of Rocky Mount, and Vivian Carter and husband David Carter of Washington. Curtis was a devoted Pa to his two grandchildren Sarah Morgan Oswald and John Curtis Oswald and step grandchildren Austin and Aaron Mitchell of Washington. Curtis also leaves behind his beloved and loyal caregiver Pauline Kearney. “Uncle Curt” had a special relationship with all six of his nieces and nephews, and was known to keep a stash of candy just for them.
Curtis graduated from Chocowinity School in 1950 and served in the Korean War from 1952-1954 in the US Army. He met his wife Marie Owens on a blind date months before he left to serve his country. Curtis married Marie on August 19, 1956 at The First Christian Church in Washington.
Curtis was a salesman. He began his career in sales at Phillips Wright Furniture in Washington. Always a sharp dresser it only made sense that he and friend Ben Woolard would purchase Suskin and Berry Department Store on Main Street in Washington. Ben and Curtis treated employees and customers like family. Curtis spent many happy years selling clothes. Many of his employees and customers remain loyal friends. After leaving Suskin and Berry, Curtis sold cars at Seaboard Motors, Budget Auto and Clark Ford. Curtis finally retired in 2001.
During his retirement Curtis enjoyed visiting with family and friends, fishing, driving his Blue Ford, working in his yard, sitting under his pine trees and playing with his grandchildren. He spent many happy hours in the company of the “gang”, Taylor and Peggy Koonce, CA and Juanita Nelson, and Marty and Helen Martikke. Curtis was a member of Wares Chapel United Methodist Church.
Curtis was deeply touched by the kindness extended to him by “His” girlfriends at Marion L. Shepard Cancer Center, Dr. Inzerillo and Dr. Cruz. He also wished that appreciation be expressed to those who showed kindness during his illness.
Curtis will always be remembered for the pride he took in his appearance, his big heart, and his loyalty.
In lieu of flowers the family kindly asks that memorial contributions be made to Ware’s Chapel United Methodist Church, Building Fund, 2788 N. Market Street Ext., Washington, NC 27889.
Condolences may be sent to the family or you may view his video tribute by visiting www.paulfuneralhome.com.
Paul Funeral Home of Washington is serving the Toler family.
I had fought a good fight; I have finished my course. I have kept the faith.
II Timothy 4:7.
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