Mary G. "Toni" Paschal, a spirited and optimistic soul, passed away peacefully on May 2, 2024, at the age of 78, in her hometown of Greenville, South Carolina. Toni, as she was affectionately known by her loved ones, was born on November 8, 1945, to the late Louie and Alva Dalton Ginn. Her warm presence and loving nature were a beacon of light to all who knew her.
Toni's journey through life was marked by her unwavering love for her family and the joy she found in simple pleasures. She is survived by her devoted life partner, Tommy Blackstone (T.J. Blackstone Jr., Joshua T. Blackstone, and Jessica Feldman Blackstone), with whom she shared countless cherished moments. Her legacy of love continues through her daughter, Mary Elizabeth (Drew) Fortune, Ashley Simmons, Cassi, Zack, Tabatha Fortune, Layton, Brenslee, Teegan, Kellett, Casey, Coutney, Bryson, Braydon, Zandrea, Zander; her son, Donald Mack Paschal (Mindy McMurray); her sisters, Mildred Pierce, Francis Messer, Doris Williams, Susan Matthews, and Linda Hudson; her brother, Buck Ginn (Brenda); her beloved grandchildren, Hailie Neaves (Adam Neaves) and their kids Sebastian and August, Casey Burkett, and Courtney Burkett. Toni was predeceased by her sister, Boots Hubbard, who now welcomes her with open arms.
A graduate of high school with some college education, Toni's intelligence and wit were as sharp as her needle. She had a passion for sewing, an art she mastered with the same care and attention she poured into all her endeavors. Toni's culinary skills were legendary among her family and friends, and her love for reading transported her to worlds far and wide. She found solace in the rhythmic dance of her crochet hook and took great pleasure in watching her favorite television shows, "Gunsmoke" and "Murders She Wrote." She loved the song "I Did It My Way" by Elvis Presley.
Toni's life was a tapestry woven with threads of resilience and grace. Her optimistic outlook on life was contagious, and she had the remarkable ability to find a silver lining in every cloud. She was the embodiment of love, always putting others before herself and nurturing her family with every ounce of her being. Her laughter was a melody that resonated in the hearts of those who heard it, and her spirit was a guiding light that will continue to shine brightly.
As we bid farewell to Toni, we celebrate a life well-lived—a life filled with laughter, love, and the joy of everyday moments. Her memory will be treasured in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to cross paths with her. Toni's departure leaves behind a void that can never be filled, but her spirit will forever remain a part of the fabric of our lives.
In the quiet moments, we will find her in the pages of a well-loved book, in the stitches of a handmade quilt, and in the warmth of a home-cooked meal. Toni Paschal's story is one of enduring love and the beauty of a life embraced with open arms. May she rest in peace, knowing that her legacy of love and optimism will continue to inspire generations to come.
A memorial service will be held at First Freewill Baptist Church, 242 Old Grove Rd Greenville, SC 29605 at 12 noon on May 18, 2024.