Gerri Tolson Obituary

Mrs. Gerri Tolson

September 16, 1940 -

September 30, 2025

Mrs. Gerri Tolson, age 85, of Johnson City, passed away peacefully at Lakebridge Healthcare on Tuesday, September 30, 2025.

She was born in Canton, Ohio, on September 16, 1940, to the late Nellie Lober. In addition to her mother, she was preceded in death by her step-son, Randy Tolson; sister, Evelyn Velovitch; nephew, Bob Velovitch.

Gerri was an Executive Secretary, working for EW Bliss Manufacturing in Canton, Ohio and then for Cogun Industries in North Lima, Ohio. She was a true example of having a servant's heart; the most loyal friend and an advocate for so many people. Gerri loved the Lord and taught Sunday School for many years. She was a member of Boones Creek Christian Church.

On a blind date she met the love of her life, David Tolson and they were about to celebrate 58 years of marriage. In addition to her husband, she is survived by her daughter, Shannon Castillo (Jose); son, Andrew Tolson (Stephanie); grandchildren, Courtney Tolson (Viet Nguyen), Sophia Castillo, and Olivia Castillo; great-grandchildren, Bear and Luna Nguyen; nephew, Joe Velovitch; niece, Deb Velovitch; adopted daughters, Carrie Fleenor, Tammy Otterstrom, and Sis McAdams; life long best friend of 79 years, Ann Kriser; long time friends, Terry Snyder and Pat Heath; numerous other friends, nieces, nephews and extended family.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 5:00 PM, Monday, October 13, 2025, at Boones Creek Christian Church, with Minister Ben Cole officiating. The family will receive friends, from 3:00 to 5:00 PM, prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Boones Creek Christian Church, 2684 Boones Creek Rd, Johnson City, TN 37615.

A special thanks to Page Sterling, NP for the wonderful long-term care provided to Gerri.

Condolences may be sent to the Tolson family online at www.dillow-taylor.com

Dillow-Taylor Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Jonesborough, TN 423-753-3821