Emma Ann Toler, age 77, returned to her hometown and slipped quietly into death on Sept. 10, 2011.

After graduation from Washington High School in 1953 and being crowned “Miss Beaufort County”, she headed for San Juan, Puerto Rico, to become the activities co-coordinator for the Luxury Condado Hotel. While there, she made friends with people from all over the world. Ann married a Marine captain and together they traveled to many countries. Her employment, like her personality, reflected her ability for variations: Marketing Director (N.Y. City) – clerical contact within the United Nations building – stringer reporter for U.S. News and World Report magazine – while living in Washington, D.C.

Ann loved to research things in museums and the Library of Congress. She produced reams of notes on her favorite subject: Early Christian Writings and Gnostic Parallels that have contributed to the interpretations and expressions of Modern Christianity. Wherever her passionate and inquisitive mind propelled her, the destination was always the same: Home – when it’s over.

There will be no service, yet each of us should celebrate and salute her passion for her earth journey and her soaring spirit.

Ann’s local family requests that her friends do not send flowers or condolences but instead, please contribute to the elder or spouse abuse program of your choice.

Paul Funeral Home & Crematory of Washington is serving the Toler family.