She was born Feb. 19, 1940 in New London, daughter of Eileen and Donald Toohey. In her youth she lived and traveled all over the world. She loved to travel and see the way others lived their lives. In 1975, she would return to Connecticut to raise her family and grandchildren that she adored.
Colleen was employed at Greentree Manor for a period of time where she was remembered for her care and compassionate attention to her patients. In her later years, she devoted her time to helping her family in any way that she was needed.
She most enjoyed spending time with her children and family and especially her best friend, her sister Patricia Barbour. The two of them were always together. Not a day went by that the two of them either spoke or were at each others homes together. Colleen's home was always the focal spot for the family to come together and swim, play, and just be together. She was the glue that kept us all in touch with one another. Her greatest gift was that she was a great listener and supported each person in whatever their choices were.
Colleen is survived by her four children, Thomas J. Will II, of Modesto, Calif., Cheryl Will, of Santa Rosa Beach, Fla., Deborah Valenti, of Pawcatuck, and Paul Will, of Gales Ferry. She is also survived by her siblings, Fay Cavan, of New London, Donald Toohey Jr., of Commerce, Texas, and Patricia Barbour, of Stonington; and several nieces and nephews. She was a devoted grandmother to her 10 grandchildren, Colleen Duncan, Robert, Joel and Lauren Valenti, Joseph, Isaac, Amanda and Elizabeth Will, and Aimee and William Bloomer-Will.
Her family will greet relatives and friends at The Dinoto Funeral Home, 17 Pearl Street, Historic downtown Mystic on Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Mary Church, Stonington, on Friday at 11 a.m. Interment will follow at Elm Grove Cemetery.
For obituary information, directions, or to send a message of remembrance/condolence to Colleen's family, please visit www.dinotofuneral.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sue & Tom & Tristan Drew
April 9, 2006
Paul,
We are sorry to hear about your mom. It's been 10 years for our mom and I remember all the help your mom gave us then. Please accept our sincere sympathy.
Patti Kaylor Vaughn
April 8, 2006
I was so sorry to hear of Colleen's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Dave Kaylor
April 7, 2006
My thoughts and prayers are with you. I have great memories of my aunt Colleen at the Indianapolis 500. She made me smile and laugh when I felt as though I had no reason too.
Mary (Joyce) Wagner
April 6, 2006
MANY years ago, Colleen and I were friends when we both lived on Blackhall St. We have been out of touch for a long time now, but I am so sorry to see that she has passed away.
My Deepest Sympathy to Colleen's Family, and all the Toohey Families.
Anna Sullivan
April 6, 2006
Cheryl and Colleen,
I am very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Anna
Betty Kaylor
April 6, 2006
I'll always remember the fun times Colleen and I had and her sweet smile.
Christine Spivey
April 5, 2006
Pat
My love and prayers go out to you and our family.
Chris
Mary Ann Shakir
April 5, 2006
Garda Dziengielewski and I worked with Coleen at Greentree Manor many years ago. We speak of her often remembering what a great personaltiy she had and how much fun we had with her. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family at this time.
Ben Barbour
April 5, 2006
You will be in my heart forever,With deepest love,Ben Barbour
Fred Souza
April 5, 2006
Deb & Rob,
Sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts are with you and your family. Know that you are not alone...
Patricia Barbour
April 4, 2006
I have lost my Special Sister and my Best Friend and Best Buddy. Colleen touched all people but losing my sister is so hard. She and I had a special bond. I love you Col and I always will. Until we meet again. Your loving Sister. Pat
Lori guertin
April 4, 2006
Deb,
God Bless you and your family. My prayers and thoughts are with you all.Lori
Kathleen Trujillo
April 4, 2006
My thoughts are with you during this difficult time. I had the opportunity to care for Colleen and we made a real connection. I still have her card on my fridge. Again, I am sorry for your loss.
Darlene Walaszewski
April 4, 2006
You are such a Dear Friend, You will be dearly Missed.I have grown attached to your family,Pat,and your Mom.. Love You.
Maria Bigornia Punzalan
April 4, 2006
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
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