James Woodrow "Jim" Toler's Obituary
James Woodrow Toler, Sr., age 93, of Mexico, MO, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, April 21, 2020 in Boone Hospital, Columbia, MO.
Jim was born on February 27, 1927 in Mounds, IL, a son to Albert Cyrus and Valley Frances (Maze) Toler. He was a proud veteran of the United States Navy having served during World War II. On September 3, 1951, he married Clara Louise Hodge in Paragould, AR and she preceded him in death on July 26, 2006. Working with his wife, Jim operated and managed Rhodes-Burford Furniture Store in Pinckneyville, IL for 44 years. He had a deep Christian faith, was a member of the First Baptist Church of Pinckneyville, IL and loved listening to traditional Christian hymns especially The Gaithers. During his time in Pinckneyville he served as president of the Pinckneyville Lions Club, was a charter member of the Pinckneyville Moose Lodge, a 35 year member of the Pinckneyville Chamber of Commerce and a member of the DuQuoin American Legion. Since relocating to Columbia, MO to be closer to his two daughters, he has enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren He also enjoyed daily trips to the Columbia Senior Center in Columbia, MO and meeting many new and close friends there. Jim was a lifelong lover of the game of golf, Cardinal Baseball but mostly he loved dancing with his late wife Clara.
Survivors include his two daughters, Janet Downen of Kansas City, MO and Cheri (Scott) Malinski of Columbia, MO; seven grandchildren, Shawn Toler, Alicia (Justin) Downen Landis, Cara (Albert) Fuqua, Chelsea Malinski, Nathaniel Malinski, Garrett Malinski and Emily Malinski; and eleven great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Clara Toler; a son, James W. Toler, Jr.; and two brothers, Albert Larkin Toler and William Andrew Toler.
A family graveside service will be held at Busby Cemetery, Goreville, IL on Saturday, April 25, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. with Reverend Clarence "Buddy" Cawvey, Jr. officiating.
Due to health concerns related to the Covid-19 virus and by the signing of executive order by Governor J.B. Pritzker, attendance will be limited and social distancing will be enforced.
Memorial donations may be made to the Columbia Senior Center of Boone County, MO.
Pyatt Funeral Home, Pinckneyville, IL has been entrusted with arrangements.
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