Robert Leigh "Bobby" Tolson Sr.

Robert Leigh Tolson, Sr. was born on August 8, 1950, at Albemarle Hospital and peacefully transitioned to heaven at his home on December 12, 2025, with his family by his side.
Known to many as Bobby, he graduated from Manteo High School, Class of 1968, and proudly served his country in the United States Coast Guard. After learning the art of selling cars from his dad, he opened his own car lot, Lighthouse Truck and Auto Sales and later on in life enjoyed selling real estate with Century 21 Nachman.
Bobby was married to the love of his life, Julie Newman Tolson, for 55 wonderful years - whom he loved more than he loved a milkshake. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised a family grounded in love, hard work, and faith. Bobby and Julie loved working side by side running the car business for many years on the Outer Banks. For Bobby, business was never just about sales; it was about people. Whether it was helping someone find a car, a mobile home, real estate, or simply offering advice, he loved serving others. As he often said, "If you need a car for your yard or a yard for your car, call Bobby Tolson."
Bobby was known for his many interests and hobbies. He loved attending Outdoors at Last Youth Adventures and Ducks Unlimited banquets, weekends at the motorcross track, surf fishing in Hatteras, watching westerns, and most importantly making memories with his grandchildren around the table, bowling, or grabbing ice cream. Bobby was a kind and gentle father and grandfather. He especially cherished Sundays spent worshipping alongside Julie at Harbor Light Church, where his faith continued to grow.
Bobby spent his final days on earth surrounded by so many friends and family whose lives he had touched along the way. He enjoyed seeing each face, hearing each prayer, and all the love shown to his family from the community he so enjoyed being part of.
Bobby is survived by his beloved wife, Julie Tolson; three daughters, Misty Tolson Morris (Julius), Presley Tillett (Ryan), and Blaize "Rory" Tolson; and his son, Robert Tolson, Jr. "JR" (Nancy). He was a proud grandfather to Dakota Meekins, Barrett Tillett, Christian Tolson, Christian Jones, Brooke Tillett and Chloe Jones. He is also survived by his brother, Dean Tolson (Heather), his sister-in-law, Carol Tolson, many beloved in-laws, nieces, nephews, and the sister he never had, Mrs. Linda Beasley (Robert).
He was preceded in death by his parents, Arnold G. Tolson, Sr. and Inez Gray Tolson, and his brothers Arnold G. Tolson, Jr., William "Bill" Tolson, and Darrell Tolson.
A funeral service will be held on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at Wanchese Assembly of God at 2:00 pm. The family will receive guests one hour prior to the service at the church. A reception will follow at the Whole Ministries Center, 826 Er Daniels Rd, Wanchese, NC 27981.
Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.TwifordFH.com. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Robert "Bobby" Leigh Tolson, Sr., please visit our floral store.