Tommie Lee Tolbert, Jr.

Tommie “Toby” Tolbert, Jr. passed away peacefully at his home on the morning of Christmas Eve, December 24, 2020.

Toby was born in Birmingham, AL on September 20, 1944 to the late Tommie Tolbert, Sr. and the late Evelyn (Borders) Jackson. He had six brothers and two sisters in which three siblings: Evelyn Borders, Michael West, and Lonnie Tolbert have preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his father-in-law, Carey Patterson and step-father, James Jackson.

Toby graduated from Dory High School in 1962 and shortly after enlisted into the Army where he served from 1969 – 1971. He was also employed by Cooper Power Systems. Toby touched the lives of many as he operated “It’s Your Ride”, a car detailing and repair shop. He had a passion for cars and there are many who can share their favorite car story about Toby. In his time of leisure, Toby was an avid spades player. He and his wife, Carol, were always partners and the team to beat. Also, up until he could no longer travel, Toby was part of many family trips. Whether he convoyed out west to California or down south to Louisiana, setting sail on a cruise ship, or staying on a tropical island, he was an active and dependable participant in many family functions. Toby also had a nice touch with the greenery and was known for how he maintained his plants.

Throughout his bout with his illnesses, Toby maintained a positive attitude and never complained. He became the anchor for many as he spent his last days in his garage laughing and hanging with his comrades.

Toby will be missed by many and leaves behind to cherish his memories: his wife, Carol (Patterson) Tolbert; son, Tommiell Spencer; daughters, Cassandra (Willie) Towns of Yerkwood, AL and Alma Evelyn Tomisha Tolbert of Milwaukee, WI; sister, Melanie (Calvin) Smith of Columbus, OH; brothers, Matthew Tolbert of Gary, IN and Ronal (Lisa) West of Seattle, WA, Terry and Harold West of Columbus, OH; grandchildren, Catasha and Willie Towns, Jr and MaKyla “Baby” Tolbert-Hubnall; great-grandchildren, Kavin and Kaleb Towns; mother-in-law, Alma Patterson; special brothers, Lymon Taylor, Jr and Kenneth Bennett; and a host of family and friends.

A viewing will be held for Toby on Saturday, January 2, 2021, from 11:00am until the time of services at 1:00pm, all at Jelacic Funeral Home, Inc., 5639 West Hampton Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53218. Social distancing and masks are required if you attend the visitation or services. Burial will be private.

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