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Joyce Tollison

Passed 08/27/2020

Obituary For Joyce Tollison

Mrs. Joyce Rebecca Tollison, born August 2, 1942 in Thomasville, NC was called by her heavenly Father on August 27, 2020. Joyce was preceded in death by her parents James and Minnie Mae Henderson, sisters Paranita Henderson, Emma Payton and brother Ernest Henderson. Joyce attended Thomasville, NC public schools and went on to earn her teaching degree from Winston Salem State University in 1964. Joyce served as a teacher in the Guilford County School System and was a committed educator who touched the lives of many. Recognized as Teacher of the Year Winner, Who’s Who of Teachers, Evon Dean Educator Award recipient, Mary Kearns Excellence in Science Teaching Nominee, and a host of other awards, Joyce received so much joy as a teacher while enriching the lives of her students. She retired in 2005 after many years of teaching at Brightwood Elementary. Loved ones left to cherish her memories are her beloved husband of fifty-five (55) years, Nathaniel Tollison; two children Para Tollison and Brent Tollison (Swanda); two grandchildren Jordan and Ian Tollison; sisters Mary Sellers (Lawrence), Lelia Rush; brothers William Henderson, Griffin Henderson (Linda), James Henderson and Gregory Henderson (Teresa); brother-in-law Bill Payton and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, loving friends and former students. A public visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 1st, 2020 from 2:00-5:00 PM, at Perry J. Brown Funeral Home, 909 East Market Street, Greensboro, NC. Funeral services will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in the honor of Joyce Tollison to the American Cancer Society by going to her ACS Mosiac page; http://main.acsevents.org/goto/joycetollison.


Condolences & Tributes

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Mrs Tollison was my 5th grade teacher at Brightwood. I loved her as so did everyone else. I remember biting my nails and her telling me if I stopped biting them she would get me a surprise so I did and she bought me a purse and still think about her all the time when my nails grow out. She was an amazing teacher, friend and all around sweetheart but was strong in what she believed. I was honored to have her in my life and I send my love and condolences to her family she loved with all her heart. Beautiful beautiful woman.

I taught at Brightwood for 7 years at the beginning of my career. I learned so much from this woman! She was a rock star in the classroom and her students loved her dearly. She was a beautiful soul inside and out.

Cari Wilson

Condolences to the Family of Joyce Tollison! We were sad to hear this news, even when it was expected. No more pain, and God knows best. Nate and kids, we're here for you, and you will be in our prayers. From Wesley and All The Other Porch's.

WESLEY R PORCH

I had the privilege of working with Mrs. Tollison at Brightwood Elementary. She was working as a tutor after she retired. She taught me so much about being a good teacher, the educational community lost a hero. She will be missed.

Samantha Lambillote (Boyd)

My heartfely sympathy to the Tollison Family. I felt as though I knew Mrs Tollisonthrough the strenhth of her daughter Para. Praying much for all of the Family during this sad time of sorrow.

Janice Cofield

Our deepest condolences for your loss. Para, we are here to support you! we are very sorry for your loss

Anne Solomon

Mrs. Tollison was a wonderful teacher, mentor, and friend. It was a true privilege to be in her presence. She will truly be an angel in Heaven. To the family, Ill keep you all in my prayers! Patricia Humble

Patricia Humble

Mrs. Tollison was a wonderful teacher, mentor, and friend. It was a true privilege to be in her presence. She will truly be an angel in Heaven. To the family, Ill keep you all in my prayers! Patricia Humble

Patricia Humble

!st Corinthians 13: 4 Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud. 5 or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. 6 It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. 7 Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstances. Loving Cousins...Mildred, Shirley & Carol

Carol Eichelberger Parnell

When I first came to Brightwood , the first time I saw you , I got tears in my eyes. You looked so much like my Mother who was deceased. As I got you know you more, I noticed you had her mannerisms and temperament. What a joy to see you everyday! You were always interested in my son Codys comings and goings. Rest In Heaven Dear Lady!! It was a pleasure to share my life and my sons life with you.

Charlotte Byrd

My condolences to the family, Joyce was an amazing women, my life was truly touched by knowing her, she had a way of making everyone feel special, A strong Woman of God.

Margaret Jone-sene

Joyce was a dear friend and colleague at Brightwood Elementary. We had so much fun as fifth grade teachers. My best memory is our trip to New York where we shared a room and stayed up way too late talking like teenagers. Joyce's students loved her so much as did I. I send prayers for the family that she loved dearly.

Judy Henline

Brent and Family,

Thinking of you and wishing you moments of peace and comfort as you remember your Mom. Our family is keeping your family in our thoughts and prayers. We hope that memories of her will bring comfort in time and that the supernatural peace of God will reign down on you all as you celebrate the life of Mrs. Tollison. May God bless and keep you all!

Andrew and Michelle Stidwell

Condolences to the family.

Geraldine Collier

Condolences to the family. Joyce was one of my favorite friends and line Sister. Will always remember our days at Winston-Salem State.

Verndene P Pettiford

To Mr. Nathaniel, Ms. Para, and Mr. Brent Tollison and family, We extend our sincere condolences on the passing of Mrs. Joyce Tollison. Mrs. Tollison truly epitomized a kind, intelligent, loving and distinguished Woman of God. She lived an accomplished and esteemed life of service in nurturing numerous students. Her career accolades are a testament of life-long dedication to education. Mrs. Tollison displayed fervent love in her walk, talk and deed for her husband, children and other family members. Mrs. Tollisons imparting of wisdom and advice will be missed as she has gone to a just reward. We pray for Gods comfort and strength for Mr. Tollison and family as they continue to navigate the transition of Sis Tollison from life to eternity. We implore you to be encouraged as she joins the cloud heavenly witnesses.

The Norford Family

Dr. Derek, Mrs. Carolyn, Ms. Andrea Norford

Mrs. Tollison befriended me when I went to Brightwood in 1996. She always supported me and made me feel welcome. Her students were so well behaved when they visited me each week. She taught respect for everyone. Over the years, we have exchanged Christmas cards. She never missed a beat. Thank you, Mrs. T., for your prayers and love for my family. We will meet again one day. I love you.

Karen Greene - BWS Media

My heartfelt sympathy for the family.I remember Joyce visiting her sister and her friends when we were at Livingstone College as freshmen.Joyce will be missed.

Joyce T R Lofton

Joyce, I remember our meeting as Freshmen at Winston-Salem Teachers College in 1960. You joined the marching band as a majorette and I also played an instrument. Our class were go getters and were very competitive in all aspects of academic and college life. As it goes graduation in 1964 came ; we all went our separate ways pursuing our chosen professions. It wasn't until the planning for our 50th Graduation Observance , that conversation with Nathaniel and you were resumed. Although health challenges were confronted, by you, over the years; just seeing you and Nathaniel was so elating and fun !! Your big smile and personality filled the air ! I have photos of that very special period in our collective lives ! Our 54th Reunon Gathering 's theme : 'Spending Our Dash'; dealt with the time of Lives from Birth to Death ! Joyce, knowing the classmate that I know; you lived every moment to the most and was a blessing to so many people during your DASH ! Joyce, your job is complete, the memories are still fresh and will never fade away......Your DASH has been extended and you are with our Heavenly Father !!! See you later Joyce !! mac

james Edward mcneal

Mrs. Tollison was truly an Angel for God. She was always gracious and willing to encourage anyone, especially a child and young adult. I truly enjoyed the many conversations I was able to have with her. It had been a while since I had spoken with her but I cherish the times we did talk.

Kathy Moore Norcott

Kathy Norcott

May The Peace of The Lord be with the Family at this most difficult time. Joyce will be missed in the Hickory Tree Lane Neighborhood.

Ernest and Hilda Allen

Mrs. Tollison was a beautiful woman inside and out. Her strength amazed me. She always encouraged me even in her difficult times. It was an honor and joy to have known her. She will be missed. Rest in peace now. I am sure the Father is pleased. Praying for the family.

Angela Jeffers

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