Ms. Willie Dell Toole was born on October 31, 1946, in Blackville, South Carolina
to the late Willie Moye and Emma Rebecca Pressley. A beloved member of the
Blackville community, she dedicated her life to faith, family, and service. She was
a devout and faithful member of Sunshine Baptist Church, where she found
strength, solace, and joy in worship. On January 29, 2025, surrounded by the love
of her family, Willie Dell peacefully entered eternal rest at home.
Willie Dell's life was a testament to love, kindness, and unwavering devotion to
those she held dear. She spent several years working at Laurel Baye Healthcare
before dedicating many more to the Blackville School District 19, where she left
a lasting impact on countless students and colleagues before retiring.
Her greatest joy, however, was found in the warmth of family and the simple
pleasures of togetherness. Sunday dinners were a sacred tradition where she
cooked every Sunday for her family. She was the heart of every gathering, whether
hosting family celebrations, enjoying phone calls filled with laughter, or reliving
cherished memories while listening to oldies and gospel quartets on YouTube. A
fierce and skilled Spades player, she appreciated a little playful trash talk and the
fellowship of a good game. Annual family trips were a highlight for her, a time to
create lasting memories and embrace the joy of adventure with those she loved.
Willie Dell was a devoted mother, sister, aunt, grandmother, and friend. She
embodied grace, humility, and gratitude, leaving behind a legacy of love and
resilience. Her warm and gentle spirit touched everyone she encountered, making
her not just a cherished member of the Blackville community but also a beacon of
kindness and strength.
She leaves behind a family who adored her: three devoted sons, Leon (Jimmie)
Harrison of Blackville, SC, Tommy Toole of Blackville, SC and Joseph (Tanzala)
Jennings of Beaufort, SC; her loving sister, Mae Francis Calhoun (Harry) of
Blackville, SC; and her caring brother, Harry Toole Sr. (Rita) of Boston, MA. She
was a proud and loving grandmother to Lavar, Grace, Antonio "Buster", Natalia,
Jireh, Dyamante, and Amber, and a doting great-grandmother to Chase, Conor,
Isabella, Bella, Braylen, and A'Vin. She also leaves behind a host of nieces,
nephews, extended family and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.
Though our hearts are heavy with loss, we find comfort in knowing that Willie
Dell's legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering faith will live on in all of us. She
was truly a light in this world, and her spirit will continue to shine in the lives of
those she touched.
Rest well, sweet Willie Dell. You have fought the good fight, finished the race, and
kept the faith. Your love remains with us always