John David Tollison
In Loving Memory of John David Tollison
December 23, 1949 – October 23, 2026
John David Tollison, age 76, of Ridgeway, Virginia, passed away on Friday, October 23, 2026, at UNC Health Rockingham.
David was born on December 23, 1949, in Spartanburg, South Carolina, to the late Benjamin Howard Tollison and Georgia Mae Tollison. In addition to his parents, David was preceded in death by his brother, Robert (Bob) Tollison.
David earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from his alma mater, the University of South Carolina. A hard worker with a passion for excellence, David dedicated more than 25 years to Tultex, working in human resources and auditing. He later continued his professional career with the federal government, serving faithfully as Office Manager for the Federal Bankruptcy Court until his retirement. Faith was a cornerstone of his life; He was also a member and former deacon of Starling Avenue Baptist Church.
A talented musician, David loved singing and playing the piano. In his youth, he played the flute, piccolo, and percussion in the marching band at Spartanburg High School, the very place where he met the absolute love of his life, Toni Arwood Tollison.
Above all his professional and musical accomplishments, David was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who deeply treasured the time spent with his family. He was an avid football fan and a fiercely loyal supporter of the South Carolina Gamecocks. Family trips to the beach brought him endless joy, especially flying kites and searching for sharks’ teeth along the shoreline with those he loved most.
His memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. He is survived by his loving wife, Toni Arwood Tollison; his children: daughters Sally Farnham (John), Carrie Painter (Travis), and Stephanie Tollison, and son Michael Tollison (Jane); his brother, Ben Tollison (Alicia); and his nine cherished grandchildren: Cody, David, Tyler, Catherine, Natalie, Davis, Nathan, Eliza, and Amelia. He also leaves behind a host of extended family members and dear friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date at Starling Avenue Baptist Church.
In lieu of flowers, Donations can be made to Starling Avenue Baptist Church Community Meal or Magna Vista High School Band Boosters.
Wright Funeral Service & Crematory is serving the family. Online condolences may be made at www.wrightfuneralservices.net.
*Humbly submitted by the family
