Evalyn Tolley

Evalyn Tolley, a beacon of unwavering love and faith, passed away peacefully in her home with her children by her side on February 9, 2024, in Greenville, South Carolina, at the age of 79. Born on February 28, 1944, in Durant, Oklahoma, Evalyn grew up in a bustling household that laid the foundation for her lifelong values of family and spirituality. Her journey was one marked by dedication to her loved ones, a commitment to service, and an infectious joy that touched the hearts of all who knew her.

Evalyn's life was a testament to her strength and resilience, qualities she displayed in abundance as she navigated the joys and sorrows of life. Her loving husband, Robert Tolley, predeceased her, as did her cherished children, Cynthia Tolley and Richard Tolley, and her siblings, David Hennigan, Clifford Hennigan, Dorothy Beisley, Margie Floyd Miller and grandson Brandon Tolley. Despite these profound losses, Evalyn's spirit remained unbroken, and she continued to be a pillar of strength for her surviving brothers and sisters Kenneth, Johnny, Mary and Aurelia, children, Michael Tolley, Robert Tolley Jr., Tammy Tolley Bennett, Lori Tolley Brackins, and Ronnie Tolley, as well as her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Evalyn was a proud high school graduate who carried the diligence and discipline of her academic years into her professional life. She worked as a secretary at the Pacific Missile Range in California and later shared her meticulous craft as a seamstress in Erwin, Tennessee. Her work ethic and dedication to her roles were evident to all who worked alongside her.

Her faith in God was the cornerstone of her existence, and she instilled this profound belief in her family. Evalyn created a loving environment where she faithfully raised her family in the church. She was always teaching the importance of love and was known for her selfless nature. Her life was a living example of her faith, and she served as a model of devotion and compassion to her family and friends.

Evalyn's love for music was another defining aspect of her life. It played a significant role in both her worship and her playfulness. Whether she was singing hymns or enjoying tunes with her family, music was a source of joy and comfort for her. She lived to serve her family and friends, often expressing her love through the melodies she cherished.

A woman of many talents and interests, Evalyn also had a playful side. She enjoyed spending time with her granddaughter, playing board games, and sharing laughter. These moments of joy and recreation were as much a part of her legacy as her more serious endeavors.

Those who knew Evalyn will remember her as loving, faith-filled, and selfless. She gave of herself generously, always placing the needs of others above her own. Her life was an embodiment of kindness, and her memory will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to feel the warmth of her presence.

Evalyn Tolley's life was a journey of love, faith, and service. As we say goodbye to this remarkable woman, we celebrate the indelible mark she has left on the lives of her family and the countless others she touched. Her spirit will live on through the love she gave, the lessons she taught, and the memories she created with those who loved her.

Evalyn's departure from this world leaves a void in the hearts of her family and friends, but they take solace in knowing that her legacy of love and faith will endure. Her life was a beautiful tapestry woven with the threads of devotion, joy, and unwavering belief, a tapestry that will continue to provide comfort and inspiration to all who were woven into it.

As we bid farewell to Evalyn Tolley, we reflect on a life well-lived, a life that was a true embodiment of the virtues she held dear. We honor her memory by carrying forward the love and light she so freely shared with the world. Rest in peace, Evalyn, knowing that your spirit will forever be a guiding force in the lives of those you cherished.