Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
James Toles Obituary
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Toles
January 29, 2010
My prayers go out to the Toles family. J was a student of mine in English. He was a delight in the classroom, and I always had high hopes for him. He will truly be missed.
Wanda Thomas
January 26, 2010
James - sorry for your loss. Think of all the wonderful times and you will meet again.
PCHS-Class of '82
Amanda Kulkoski
January 25, 2010
I meet James a few years ago while working at St. John's Baptist Church. We were both part of the media ministry. James was so nice and always made me feel welcome at church. It was amazing to see his love for film. He was always filled with such energy and passion. I'll always remember his smile always lit up the room. James, thanks for your kindness you are truly an amazing person.
Dee-Anna Rogers
January 19, 2010
I met james in my African American studies class, he always greeted me with a smile and reassurance that he would keep in contact. I always spoke highly of him because.... he was so approachable. Not ever negative. I JUST got the news today, it passed my mind why i didnt see him in the library, it hurt me so bad, hearing news like that was so surreal. I know that god does everything for a reason, and he wants his angels in heaven with him. I dont think that i could ever forget James.. I keep looking at the news paper in disbelief. I just pray for the family. I pray their strength in the lord, i hope they keep the faith and realize that god is the only true healer and through him, all things, although tough is possible. But most importantly.. Thank you James.. For just being nice to me, unconditionally..
James on the set of Obsessed (LA)
January 16, 2010
I am truly at a loss right now, because James was a good friend of mine. First my heart and prayers go out to the Toles family.
James...or "J" as he liked to be called he was a very talented young man who had a strong understanding of what he wanted to accomplish in life.
Me and him worked on the Obsessed Project in LA as well as collaborated on several projects at GSU and film projects he had in development.
We spoke often about film, old movies, future ideas and most importantly staying true to the art.
James was very wise despite his age and for those who didn't know he was the type of individual who had a strong spiritual relationship, he was like a brother to me and he will be truly missed...
ONE LOVE J
LOS
Anonymous Anonymous
January 13, 2010
To the Toles Family,
Words cannot express this moment or time or what you are enduring, but Jesus Christ's peace, love, and comfort will carry you through. Although gone from this side, he will be truly missed, but on the other side, James is truly welcomed home back to the Father. I do believe as the scriptures state, "To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord". James had such a passion for whatever he did and such a "drive" and determination as a young, black man. I was so hurt to hear of James' departure. Truthfully, when I first heard it, I was angry and I asked, God why? This young man was serving you and going somewhere - a good example in these days and times. I asked God, there many young men out on the street who could care less about serving YOU and are getting shot and in trouble many times and live to boast in their so-called Victory and evil doing and to let something like this happen - WHY? Nevertheless, God let's us know that all things work together for good to those who love the Lord and are called according to his purpose. As I conclude, I believe in life James touched those who God desired him to, but in death James has touch many more hearts on behalf of Jesus Christ who he loved than you can ever know. Toles family, please be encouraged and remember that James departure may be our loss, but his memory of being a righteous man of God is gain to many.
Love,
Anonymous - JBC
Shane Toepfer
January 11, 2010
I was granted the pleasure of having James in one of my media courses at GSU. I will never forget his intellectual curiosity, as he loved to enter discussions on every topic we covered that semester. I came to depend on him to get the class discussion going because I knew he would always want to probe a bit further.
As the semester went on he afforded me the opportunity to look over some of his plays he was working on for other courses. I loved talking with him about his wonderful imagination and drive to make these scenes as fascinating as possible.
I will treasure these plays always, and am so very grateful that I spent those weeks with him in early 2009.
My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.
Cody Nichol
January 10, 2010
I first met James at the Governors Honors Program. We became friends because of our mutual love for the Lord Jesus Christ. I know James as a faithful servant and crazy lover of Jesus. We don't know why the Lord allowed this to happen, but we trust Him and know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28). My source of joy in such a moment is Christ Himself and knowing that my brother James is now enjoying the Lord Jesus to a greater and fuller extent!
Sidney Bryant
January 10, 2010
It Brings Tears to my eyes tonight as I reflect the times I had to spend with James, I'll never forget he called one day and asked what could he do to help me with one of my events, we drove down from Atlanta he myself and Eddie, to host the event. A young man who didnt mind telling you he Loved the lord, one who was a... true Christian and a True Friend... I can't say enough about my friend, I pray one day I will see him on the other side... Gone but never Forgotten... Sorry Jarael I wasn't able to make the Home Going, but My prayers are with you all. God Bless the Tole Family.
Lester Lec'k White, Mr. BTS Founder/President
January 9, 2010
To The Family:
My prayers are with you as you mourn the passing of such a fine and gifted young man. I got to know James when he participated in the Mr. Black Teen Savannah Scholarship Competition. His talents were truly inspirational. He shared in three of the competitions and helped in preparing the contestants for the showcases. When he left for college he told me that whenever I desire his assistance to call and he would be there. We are truly going to miss him and is dedicating the 2010 Mr. BTS in his honor.
Well Done Good and faithful Servant!!!
Shonda SmallsWillis
January 8, 2010
Michelle and familily no words can ease what it is that you are feeling at this time. I know that you know that there is nothing that God can not handle. I will continue to pray for you and your family and I pray that you and your family will find the strength to hold and to lean on God during this time, Michelle everytime we talked I always said to you that Lafayette was going somewhere and that he is a special young man, because he is so humble and each opportunity he received he gave God the glory and gave back to everyone he had the opportunity to meet. That kind of person is filled with the spirit of God, and now we know that somewhere is Heaven. Shonda Smalls Willis from Saint John Baptist Church and Family Fractice.
Tammy Brown-Torres
January 8, 2010
Michelle my heart is deeply saddened and yet filled with joy. The world has lost a true gentleman, yet heaven has received a priceless jewel. He was a beautiful young man and you know that I loved him. You and your family are in my prayers.
Jenny Setzer
January 8, 2010
To the family of James IV,
Michelle my heart goes out to you. My prayers are with you and your family. Keep the faith and know that God is with you.
Kimberly White
January 8, 2010
To Ms. Michelle:
I know you don't know me but my mom (Mel) is one of your co-workers at CYSS and I wanted to give you and your family my condolences. May God Bless you and your family in your time of sorrow.
Danielle Gibson
January 8, 2010
Michelle & Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. There are no words that I can say to express how deeply I’m saddened by the loss of James. James, as we all knew him was an extra ordinary young man. His energy and commitment to anything that he took part of always inspired me. You and I would spend hours talking about his next project and how someone so young could be so smart while remaining humble and obedient along the way.
Now that he’s gone, it’s hard not to question why but remember that GOD has a plan. He never said it would be easy but he promised to never leave you or forsake you. I love you all. I am here for you now and will be here for you later. Love Danielle, Tony & Duarrell
January 8, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with you>
Karl Miller and Mia Rozier-Thomas
Pastor Damion Welcome
January 7, 2010
Good-bye would assume that because of your gloom there's no Hope for tommorrow. For just one moment let's assume that Joy replaces Sorrow. What I lost vs. what I've gained there's no comparing. I cross the Jordon and entered Heaven and now God's abode, I'm sharing. The view is awesome, the choir heavenly and the Walks with Jesus out of sight. Mama please excuse me while with Angels' wings I take flight ! *Sorely Missed But Surely Saved* Dedicated To James Toles... Pastor & Mrs. Welcome ( Petra Ministries )
Doreen Ford
January 7, 2010
My heart goes out to you.I can only encourage you to keep the faith because God has a plan for his life.Just hold on to God unchanging hand and know that your son has gone to a better place and his legacy will live on. God be with you
Doreen
Janice Clay (Frye)
January 7, 2010
To Michelle,James,and Family;
You are in our thoughts and prayers,May your memories bring you comfort.And to know that you have the love and support of Family and Friends.
I remember Michelle,Micheal,James so well long before James 111 was born.We Love you and are praying diligently for you and family
Marvin & Catherine Brown, Sr.
January 7, 2010
Michelle & James,
Our prayers are with you and Family. May God surround you with peace and love. Know that you raise a wonderful son and that he'll always be with you.
Know that we love you and here for you.
Dr. Stephanie Oliver
January 7, 2010
God's plan is the greatest plan. Look to Him for strength and He will guide you through.
God is ever so near
Vivian Scott
January 7, 2010
To Michelle, James' Mother,
There are no words that can speak to your loss, nor what I feel as a personal loss to me, the media specialist here at Savannah Arts Academy. James was a bright light to me everyday that he came to the media center. He was always pleasant, well-mannered, focused, organized time-on-task, and he always "told" me what he wanted me to do, and I willingly put myself to the task, because he was serious about his work and about what he wanted to do. We had many discussions, debates and I think I grandmothered him all the time. I loved him very much, and always told him that he was going to be somebody's CEO. Please know that his life was filled with wonderful accomplishments and touched us in his special way and in a positive light.
Sincerely,
Vivian J. Scott
Library/Media Specialist
Savannah Arts Academy
500 Washington Avenue
Savannah, Georgia 31405
January 7, 2010
Keith Pynn
Barbara Tiles
January 7, 2010
i shall always remember Jame here at Thankgiving, his beautiful smiling face and the joy he showed interacting with his family.
I thank God for the gift of James in our lives.
Love, Nana
Cotton Family
January 6, 2010
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 1998-2009
January 6, 2010
To the family of James IV,
I am so sorry for your lost. James was like one of my own children and was very much loved here at Georgia State University. He will be missed. May God bless your entire family.
Bryce McNeil
January 6, 2010
No one could duplicate the energy and passion that James brought to GSTV. His dedication will be greatly missed.
We are greatly saddened by this terrible loss. My deepest condolences to Mr. and Mrs. Toles, and please know how many people cherished the moments that they got to spend with your son.
Rosalyn Sanchious
January 6, 2010
my prayers are with the family. I will continue praying for you and the family of James . Peace be with all. Rosalyn Sanchious, of Hinesville
Kendra Kelly
January 5, 2010
Jay, you will be missed. Your light, love for life, the passion you brought to film, and other endeavors will forever live on. May you rest in peace. The lights at GSU are dimmer because you are no longer with us.
- Kendra Kelly
GSU
David Stevens
January 5, 2010
James was an outstanding influence on all who had the opportunity to be involved with him. His relentless drive and desire for knowledge always inspired and motivated others. James exemplified the model student in character, conduct, and deed and catapulted himself to the forefront of his peers. The numerous accolades and achievements he amassed in his brief time with us are but a glimmer of his extraordinary dreams for the future. The Lord has blessed us all to have had him in our lives, and the Lord in his infinite wisdom has now called him home. The heaven shines just a little brighter now, for God has called home a star. I will miss and always remember James. -David L Stevens (Teacher Shuman Middle School)
Bernard Roberson
January 5, 2010
Gone to soon .James you will be truly missed .may god bless this family
Audree Irons
January 5, 2010
To James Toles IV's family, may the spirit of the Creator comfort you during this difficult time. God bless you all.
Keayia Wilson
January 5, 2010
R.I.P. James! I just saw him a few days in the Office of Student Activities before the Xmas Break! He had done tons for the Georgia State University and our thoughts and prayers will be with the family and friends. ( Keayia Wilson-G-State)
Bob Morton
January 5, 2010
The love between parents and child is unlike any other. My sincere condolences to Mr. and Mrs. Toles, family and friends for the loss of James. My thoughts and prayers are with you. He will be sorely missed by the Georgia State University community.
January 5, 2010
RIP...lil cuz ..big cuz kelvin and sabrina...love ya ........
Anita Dailey
January 5, 2010
Michelle & Michael,
Our prayers are with you during this time. James was an exceptional young man and we learned that he excelled at whatever he put his hands to. We pray that God will comfort you and keep you. We love you and are praying diligently for you and your family.
Anita & Damien
Darce Stelly
January 5, 2010
I knew James through my association with my major and volunteering with GSTV. He was always active and had high energy. I pray for the family and friends that they may have the peace that we all attempt to provide but only God can provide.
Tara Smith
January 4, 2010
I was there when James became Mr. Black Teen Savannah. His talent was astonishing. He will be deeply missed. I am praying for the Toles Family's strength during this difficult time.
Martina Allen
January 4, 2010
My thoughts and prayers go out to the family of James. Even though James graduated a year before me, he still made an impact on my life. We both were officers of FBLA together as well as Communication majors. There was never a day that James didn't inspire me to do better. He taught me more about Christ with his unconditional love for him and by being a testimony for him everyday. He was serious about his craft and made the most thrilling films I had ever seen. He was a wonderful person and I thank God for the pleasure of meeting him. His kindness will forever be embedded in the hearts of everyone he met.
Alisa Perren
January 4, 2010
James was a student in one of Media courses at Georgia State last semester. I was impressed by his kindness, his drive and enthusiasm. He will be greatly missed.
Lynette Angeloni
January 4, 2010
James was truly a model student and displayed the ambition, creativity, enthusiasm, dedication, leadership, love for learning, and character an educator admires among students. His talents flourished at Savannah Arts Academy and he was an inspiration to all those around him, peer students and teachers. I had the pleasure of being in one of his films my first year at SAA and will cherish the opportunity. James had a passion for life and will live on in the memories of those he touched.
With loving prayers and my deepest sympathy,
Ms. Lynette M. Angeloni,
Savannah Arts Academy Assistant Principal
Dawnn Mitchell
January 4, 2010
My prayers are for all of James' loved ones! May we all have Aaron's peace with James' home going!
The time I got to share with this brilliant, beautiful human being was short, however, it was fulfilling. After meeting him once, in 2008, I remembered him forever as a part of his light was shown through his wonderful smile.
I last spoke with him regarding the filming of the Dramatist Theatre we worked on together at GSU this past November. It will be in loving memory of James, whose work was a part of the show.
Indeed, the pleasure of knowing this man was all mine!
Brandi Slayton
January 4, 2010
Sincere condolences to the Toles family. I worked with James on Obsessed and he was the most unforgettable intern we've ever had. We all knew he was destined for whatever his heart desired. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Sarah Spradley
January 4, 2010
I knew James as a classmate of my son at SAA and as a brother to Jarael Toles at Bartow Elementary. James was well-mannered, well-spoken, friendly, and gifted in so many ways. He had a knack for making people feel good. I am only one of many, many community members mourning his untimely loss. My thoughts are with his family at this time.
Sincerely,
Sarah Spradley
Brittany Cummings
January 4, 2010
It was pleasure meeting and speaking with James, and his great work ethic was an inspiration to me. I will miss him so much and my prayers are with his family.
Ginny Albert
January 4, 2010
To the family of James Toles, thanks so much for sharing him with us. It was a relationship that can never be duplicated. "Jay" as we knew him at GSTV was a true luminary, and he now takes his place with other heavenly beings to watch over us. He was as a son to me; I shall forever cherish his memory, and will miss him in a way that defies description. Godspeed, James.
AMOM
January 4, 2010
MY DEEPEST HEARTFELT CONDOLENCES TO
THE FAMILY.
Marini O. Jackson
January 4, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with James' family. He was truly a remarkable young man and will be greatly missed. By him living his life fully for the Lord inspires me to do the same. God bless you.
Alvin Reeves, Jr
January 3, 2010
James was a young man to know and to follow, at Georgia State Univ. He had such a strong, admired passion for film that I related with. So it was definitely a joy to see him exhibit and work towards it daily. I took moments to study him and his work in videography just to grasp a bit of the vast knowledge he had to offer. He wanted to give everyone the opportunity to discover the joy and pleasures he found in his works. My last image I have now imprinted in my thoughts forever is of him at the school's basketball game. He was there to offer video services for his department expecting no compensation. For this man to spend his holiday time doing this that he loved... that will never be forgotten.
He may have been here for a short while, the days came to take him away. But, in whatever part he played, he shall be remembered as part of a legacy... of sharing dreams and changing humanity for the better. It's that legacy that never dies.
God bless.
Parrinder Terry
January 3, 2010
James was one of the most motivated, focused, and positive individuals I had ever met. He had a drive and vision for his craft, coupled with a love for life and the Lord that was unflappable. I will miss him. Watching movies will not be the same without being able to call him up and share critiques. To Michelle, Jarael, and all of James' family, my family, we were all truly blessed to have known him. He made himself at home in our hearts. What a wonderful gift God gave.
Debbie Stephens
January 3, 2010
My thoughts and prayers go out to James' family. I am an FBLA adviser in Jesup, GA I enjoyed working with James through FBLA - I even had the priviledge of taking him with our Wayne County group to Jacksonville to FBLA National Fall Leadership conference. I was in Chicago when he placed in Public Speaking. James was a fine young man and a strong Christain. He truly will be missed.
Michelle Morris
January 3, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with James' family. I work with his mother who is a wonderful lady. My heart is broken for her. I hope that she can take a little comfort in the light that her son cast wherever he went. He really was a shining star. Michelle we are praying foryu and Jarael.
Lynn Ivey
January 3, 2010
My condolences goes out to my extended family. James will be missed. God bless you all.
Pastor Damion Welcome
January 3, 2010
Our Thoughts and Prayers are with you... From The Welcome Family...( Pastor Damion & April Welcome & Family )
C. Wimes
January 3, 2010
My thoughts and prayer are with the family of James. I met James about 2 yrs ago when I moved to savannah and first started working at the Bull Street Library. We actually started on the same day and were friends from then on. He was a great person and will be missed.I am sooo completely sorry for your lost. He will be remebered by all.
Sha Dishong
January 3, 2010
James visited us often in the children's department of the Bull Street Library. He was always full of life and enthusiasm. I loved hearing what he had just accomplished and what he was planning for next. I used to tell him that I knew that I should get his autograph because someday we would be able to say that we knew him before he became famous. The fact is that he was already a very amazing person and that we were all lucky to have been around his energy.
I will miss him very much and am so sure that God has welcomed into heaven a man young in years who has an old and beautifully burnished soul.
Kristen Wigley
January 3, 2010
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Toles' family and friends. James will truly be missed. I met James my junior year at SAA, he was a freshman. He was one of the friendliest people you will ever meet and he always had a big smile on his face. He enjoyed life and lifting people's spirits. I was heartbroken to hear about his death but I know that he is in a better place, singing and worshiping with all the angels. My prayers go out to his loved ones. James' memory will definitely live on for he touched all of those he came in contact with.
Kristen Wigley
SAA Class of 2006
S DeJesus
January 3, 2010
My thoughts and prays goes out to James family. James was such a wonderful person, I first met James at the bull street library and since then there wasn't a day that went by that James didn't say hello. He will be truly missed. May God Bless This Family.
Showing 1 - 59 of 59 results
Make a Donation
in James Toles's name
Memorial Events
for James Toles
How to support James's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor James Toles's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
