Ray Tolston

Ray I. Tolston

July 29, 1938 – September 17, 2026

Ray I. Tolston, age 88, of Harrison, Ohio, passed away unexpectedly on September 17, 2026. Born on July 29, 1938, in Norfolk, Virginia, Ray was the beloved son of the late Joe and Jane (Bunch) Tolston.

A graduate of Norview High School, Ray proudly and honorably served his country in the United States Army. He was a member of Local #495 Plumbers and Pipefitters Union, Church on Fire, and held the distinguished title of Life Master of the American Contract Bridge League, an accomplishment reflecting his passion and skill for the game he loved.

Ray was a devoted follower of Christ whose faith guided the way he lived and treated others. He loved God and Jesus and believed deeply in the power of mercy, grace, and forgiveness for all of God's children. He understood the truth expressed in Romans 3:10, "There is none righteous, no, not one," and believed that we are all in need of God's grace. This understanding shaped his compassion for others and his willingness to extend the same mercy and forgiveness that he believed Christ offers to each of us.

Ray possessed a rare gift for listening. Whether someone needed advice on fixing something around the house or guidance through life's more difficult personal challenges, he was a trusted source of wisdom and knowledge. He listened patiently and thoughtfully, never rushing to offer an opinion or pass judgment. Instead, he shared insight, practical advice, and gentle encouragement, helping others find their own way forward. Those who sought his counsel often left feeling heard, understood, and better equipped to face whatever lay ahead.

Ray loved his country, his family, and his friends. He took exceptional pride in his grandchildren and delighted in spending time with little ones, whose presence brought him tremendous joy. He had a natural warmth that made people feel welcome and at ease. Whether sharing a friendly joke, exchanging a few words with someone he encountered, or taking time for a conversation, Ray genuinely enjoyed connecting with people. His humor, curiosity, and easy manner brought smiles to those around him.

Above all, Ray leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and family. He was the loving father of David Tolston, Shelia (Rodney) Sumner, Ann (Wayne) Birkhead, Sylvia Street, Michael Tolston, Cassie Stevens, and Charity Gonzalez. He was a cherished grandfather of 20, with one grandchild on the way, and a proud great-grandfather to many. He is also survived by his brother, Aaron (Peggy) Tolston.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Jane Tolston; his beloved daughter, Sandy Street; and his wives, Carolyn and Sharon.

Ray will be remembered for his faith, his wisdom, his warm gentleness, and the kindness he extended so naturally to others. His life reminds us that we need not be perfect to be worthy of love, that listening can be an extraordinary act of kindness, and that mercy and forgiveness are among the greatest gifts we can offer one another. His family and friends will carry forward the lessons he taught, the laughter he shared, and the love he gave so freely.

Visitation and Funeral Services

Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance of Ray on Saturday, September 26, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until the funeral service at 1:00 p.m., with Pastor Doug Combs officiating. Both will be held at Jackman Hensley Funeral Home, 215 Broadway Street, Harrison, Ohio 45030.

Burial and Military Honors

Burial will take place on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Forest Lawn Cemetery, 8100 Granby Street, Norfolk, Virginia 23505, where Ray will be laid to rest with military honors conducted by the United States Army.

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Matthew 5:7 (KJV)

“Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.”