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Toforaya Bernard Obituary
TOFORAYA BRIGHAM
Ocala - Toforaya Brigham Bernard, the fifth child born to the union of the late James Woodrow Brigham and the late Mary Louise Gaddy Brigham, was born November 23, 1952 in Deland, Florida. She spent most of her life in Ocala. Toforaya was a 1970 graduate of Ocala High School. She graduated from Central Florida Community, Ocala, Fl, with an Associates of Arts degree. She attended the University of West Florida, Pensacola, Florida. Toforaya was employed with the Marion County School System as a Paraprofessional for 22 years before retiring due to illness. On March 17, 2011, Toforaya answered the master's call and peacefully transitioned to her heavenly home. Left to celebrate her life, a devoted and loving husband, Thomas Bernard; two sons- Thomas L. Bernard ( Alethia), Lexington, KY., and Desmond K. Bernard, Lexington, KY.; two grandchildren- Desmon A. Bernard and Karyn D. Bernard, five sisters- Haltyon Hines, Tempe, AIL, Mercedes Courtney, Miami, FL., D'Wanette Dilworth (Ronald), Ocala, FL., Charleta White (Curtis), Lawtey, FL., and Retrina Hilton (Lester), Hollywood, SC.; four brothers - Gregory Brigham (Carolyn), Tampa, FL., Ronald Brigham (Willa), Carey, NC., Cedric Brigham (Senthia), Ocala, FL. and Christopher Brigham, (Carolyn), Manassas, VA.; eight sister-in-laws- Betty Glover, Ocala, FL., Wilma Chisholm, Ocala, FL., Patricia Jones (Levy), Ocala, FL., Sharon Coaxum, Ocala, Fl, Dirann Bernard, Ocala, FL., Rena Roberts (Jimmy), Jacksonville, FL., Debra Wooden (Amos), Karen Woodberry (Wesley), Ocala, FL.; seven brother-in-laws- Vernon Bernard (Fannie), Williston, FL., Nathaniel Bernard (Joyce), Columbus, GA., Darryl Brown (Emma), Augusta, GA., Jerome Brown (Ann), Ocala, FL., Ricky Bernard, Tampa, FL., Michael Bernard, Ocala, FL., and Gregg Bernard, Ocala, FL; Goddaughter: Arniece Edwards, Ocala, FL. In addition, a host of other relatives and loved ones that will miss her. Funeral Services For Mrs. Toforaya Brigham Bernard age 59 Para Professional will be held on Saturday March 26,2011 at 3:00 P.M. at The Mt. Moriah Baptist Church 55 Southwest 3rd Avenue Ocala, Florida with The Reverend Dr. Lorenso S. Edwards Sr., Pastor Conducting The Services Interment will Be in Tucker Hill Union Cemetery, Ocala, Florida under the Care of Summers Funeral Home Inc. 2238 Northwest 10th Street Ocala, Florida 34475. Viewing For Mrs. Bernard will be A wake on Thursday at 7:00 P.M. AT Mt. Moriah Baptist Church Then on Friday at the Funeral Home 11:00 A.M. TO 7:00 p.m. Then Saturday at The Church 2;00 P.M. UNTIL time of service no viewing after the eulogy. SUMMERS FUNERAL SERVICE MAKES THE DIFFERENCE. Our Family Serving Your Family.
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Memories and Condolences
for Toforaya Bernard
Desmond Bernard
October 14, 2019
Hey Grandma T,
Your boy is doing his thing in college and I know you see me and helping me get through the tough trials. I can't believe how long it has been. You have another Grand baby in Amber, she talks about you all the time. We get to share your stories and joy with her. Love you so much !
Wilanna Laws
April 13, 2011
I am so deeply saddened that Ms. Bernard has passed. She was a like a second mom to me. I loved her very much. Even though I had moved away about 14 years ago, I tried to stay in touch with her. Every time I came to Ocala to visit, I would always make it my plan to see her and Mr. Tommy. I had just seen her in January when my grandmother had passed. I didnt know that that would be the last time I would see her. I will miss her face, her smile, her hugs, I will miss.............HER. I will be relocating back to Ocala soon, It will be really sad that she won't be there, and that I will never see her again. My heart is broken, but I know she is in a better place. Mr. Tommy, Lamar, Keron and family, may God comfort you in your time of sorrow.
ANNIE LAWS
April 9, 2011
I loved seeing you and Tommy in my Sunday School class at MT. Moriah and it was great to know your family and Lamar.I am planning to relocate to Ocala soon- sorry I missed you.
Ke'ron Bernard
April 7, 2011
Mom it's me I miss you so much! I am trying to keep my head up but it is so hard not having you hear anymore! You will always be dear to my heart forever and ever! I LOVE YOU SO MUCH AND MISS YOU MORE THAN LIFE ITS SELF!
rosemary kelly
April 3, 2011
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
March 27, 2011
My sympathy is with you family. I just heard about Toforaya today on the "power of the Gospel" radio broadcast.
I worked with Toforaya at Mt. Moriah as a volunteer parent while my daughters were in her Girl Scout troop.
Shalom unto the family. God is there. I am praying for you all.
Savannah Murphy and family
(LaKeshia, SaRanda and Arturo, Ocala, FL)
The Mitchell Family
March 26, 2011
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Geri Bynum-Martin
March 26, 2011
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Babara Washington Adult Activity Center
March 26, 2011
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Class of 1972 Forest/Vanguard High School
March 26, 2011
"With Deepest Sympathy". The memory of Toforaya Brigham Bernard will always be in our hearts.
Horace Nichols
March 26, 2011
"For love is eternal, and those we love shall be with us throughout all eternity".
I was deeply saddened when I learned about Toforaya passing. My sincere sympathy to the families.
Rosetta Tucker-Nichols
March 26, 2011
My heart goes out to the Brigham and Bernard families during their time of sorrow. I also remember toforaya parents who were good people which I'm hoping they've made it eternally with our heavenly Father.
I'll always be so grateful to James the reason my husband started working on the railroad.
Alkia Washington
March 25, 2011
"Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints." And a saint you were; God placed you in my life for a reason, and I am & will forever be thankful that God blessed me with your presence & your consistent, humbling deeds.
Letter From Heaven
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2010
Alice Robinson-Rozier
March 25, 2011
To the Bernard and Brigham family,
May the comfort of GOD help you during this difficult time. Torofaya was a beautiful person.
Cheryl Lonon
March 25, 2011
Dear Tommy, I pray your strength be enhanced by Lord God Yahweh's SUPERnatural strength. The love you and Toforaya had for each other spread to others and it will live on forever. Till we all meet again, my dear classmate and brother,
"Class of '68)
Beverlyn Kaiser-Franklin
March 25, 2011
The last time I talked to T was Christmas Day. There was so much laughter with the stories she told. God's voice thunders in marvelous ways; he does great things beyond our understanding. My heart is with the family.
March 25, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort
The Class of "1976"
Lena Hopkins-Smith
March 25, 2011
May God comfort and keep you during this difficult hour. You are in my thoughts and paryers.
~~~~~~CLASS OF ''67''~~~~~~~
March 25, 2011
WEEPING MAY ENDURE FOR A NIGHT, BUT JOY COMETH IN THE MORNING.RIP TOFORAYA WE LOVE U BUT GOD LOVED U BEST.
KENNETH WILLIAMS
March 25, 2011
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
Alfonso & Davida Randolph
March 25, 2011
It was a blessing to know Toforaya. She was a sweet person. Always had a smile on her face and eager to help someone. We pray God's blessings and strength upon Tommy and the boys. May God give you strength for the days ahead.
THALIA & DAUGHTER INDIA HARRELL
March 25, 2011
GOD HAS CALLED ANOTHER ONE OF HIS BEAUTIFUL ANGELS HOME...YOU MAY BE GONE BUT I WILL NEVER FORGET THE WONDERFUL PERSON THAT YOU WERE.. ALWAYS KIND AND HAD GOOD THINGS TO SAY ABOUT PEOPLE..YOU WILL BE MISSED....
CLASSMATE OF 1970....
Falesia & Tamekia wilson
March 25, 2011
Words, however kind,
can't mend your heartache:
but those who care and
share your loss wish you,
comfort and peace of mind.
May you find strength,
in the love of family,
and in the warm embrace,
of friends.
Deepest Sympathy
Vicky Merrill
March 25, 2011
To a wonderful friend ,whose smile lit up a room.She was a true blessing to Hillcrest and all who knew her!She dances now in Glory with her Lord.She will be greatly missed.Her life was a celebration of a strong faith.Love
Forest and Vanguard High Class of 1975
March 25, 2011
To Charoletta, we are praying for the strength of your family to endure the loss of your sister. We know you loved her and will miss her greatly. Continue to look to God for your strength in the days to come.
Dodi Shipp
March 25, 2011
To the Bernard Family:
It is truely a loss.I was at the service last night and the wonderful things that was said about you're loved one was beatiful.I only wish i had meet her.Keep her memories in you're heart and that is what will get you through in time.May god bless you and you're family in this time and sorrow.
Unique Lingerie Inc & Staff
March 25, 2011
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
Milynda Mercer
March 25, 2011
Tommie and family,
May the GOD of all compassion keep the family during this difficult time. My prayers are with you all.
Ggeorge &Mildred Boyle
March 25, 2011
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
March 24, 2011
"May the God of all comfort, comfort all of you during this time. May His peace that passeth all understanding fill your hearts and minds. You are in my prayers." Tanya McCullough-Hart (Ocala, FL)
March 24, 2011
Mrs. T was a great lady and teacher at Maplewood. I am blessed to have worked with her. May your memories help you through this difficult time. Jodie De Santis
Corey and Shameeka King
March 24, 2011
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Alonzo Braddon
March 24, 2011
To the Bernard and Brigham family, may the Lord comfort you doing your lost. Mary and I will keep your family in our Prayers.
BOBBY WILKERSON JR.
March 24, 2011
I WILL ALWAYS MISS AND LOVE YOU AS A ALWAYS KNEW YOU! I WILL ALWAYS REMEBER WHEN YOU BROUGHT ME MY FIRST BIKE AND HOW YOU SHOWED ME HOW TO RIDE!!YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!I QUEST GOD LOVED YOU MORE!!I LOVE YOU ''GOD-MOMMA T''LOVE POOH
Maria Sutherlin
March 24, 2011
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
kimberly zeigler
March 24, 2011
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
MELODY JOHNSON
March 24, 2011
May god bless Bernard and Brigham family at this time of sorrow.TOFORAYA WAS A GOOD PERSON SHE WILL BE MISS
Chenissa Boone
March 24, 2011
You will truely be missed.......The Boone Family
March 24, 2011
My the Lord comfort the Bernard family in your time of lost. We will keep you in our prayers.
Derrow & Louretta Wallace
B K (Bear) Wheeler & Family
March 24, 2011
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Susane Quigley
March 24, 2011
YOU ARE SO LOVED AND WILL TRUELY BE MISSED. MAY THE LORD COMFORT YOUR FAMILY AT THIS TIME. WITH LOVE AND RESPECT, SUSANE QUIGLEY.
Linda Lofton
March 24, 2011
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Leroy and Margaree Jones
March 24, 2011
In times like these, we need a saviour,let us pray for one another
ANDRE & LONDIE GREENE
March 24, 2011
YOU WILL TRUELY BE MISSED MAY GOD CONTINE TO BLESS AND KEEP YOUR FAMILY THE LORD ONLY TAKES THE BEST
Meredith Banks
March 24, 2011
May god bless you and your family at this time of sorrow.Tee was a wonderful person with a heart of gold and a beautiful personality to go with it- may we all remember her smile and laughter and the joy she brought to many.Your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Class of 1970 Ocala High
March 24, 2011
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Forest and Vanguard Class of 83
March 24, 2011
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Sharon/Mitchell Sinha
March 24, 2011
God Has come once again and picked a beautiful rose for His garden. Tommy and family our prayers are with you.
Sharon Mitchell & Donia Reaves
March 24, 2011
Tommie, We are thinking about you. We will miss Toforaya beautiful smile. My Mom is already missing her she is always talking about the good times they shared. Our Heart and Prayer's goes out to you and the Boys.
With Much Love,
Shan and Kay Francis Samuel
Emmanuel & Tammye Miller
March 24, 2011
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Emmanuel & Tammye Miller
March 24, 2011
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Esther Johnson
March 24, 2011
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
March 24, 2011
The Bernard family,Thinking of you in your sorrow, you are in my thoughts and prayer
Sheron Edwards Cox
March 24, 2011
To Thomas and the entire Family,
We are praying that you find peace and comfort in the Lord. He will get you through your hours of grief and much more. God Bless you and your family.
Always Jackie Boone-Bryant & Family
Patricia Edwards Taylor
March 24, 2011
Tommie&Boys,Thinking of you in your sorrow and wishing you strenght in the days ahead
Eugene and Alice Brown
March 24, 2011
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Angel, Greg & Kenny Carr
March 24, 2011
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Molita Frazier-Thompson
March 24, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Tina Brito
March 24, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
cynthia diane king
March 24, 2011
with heartfelt sympathy, earth has no sorrow that heaven cannot heal.
Harold Drummer
March 24, 2011
You will be truly missed. You will forever live in our hearts.
RICKIE,WILLIEMAE,&LEANEZE HAWKINS
March 24, 2011
You will always live in our hearts and prayers.
LEANEZE HAWKINS-DOZIER
March 24, 2011
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
March 24, 2011
MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU TOMMY,KERON,LAMAR AND ALL OF THE BRIGHAM-BERNARD FAMILY.
OUR LONG CHATS,LAUGHING,MORAL AND VALUES WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN.
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