May 14, 1953 ~ September 3, 2023 (age 70)
Also known as “The Lawnmower Man”
Passed away with his family by his side early Sunday morning, September 3rd at Columbus Regional Healthcare System.
Randy was the former owner and operator of Randy’s Small Engine Repair in Whiteville NC until his retirement, although he continued to “piddle” on a few mowers after retirement, he never let it get in the way of his fishing.
Randy was a unique character to say the least, in his younger years he was a bit wild and free spirited, and softball was his game of choice. He loved the game and was a rock-solid hitter and catcher. When he planted his feet to stop a runner from reaching home plate, they would simply bounce right off of him, and he never budged.
As tough as he was though, Randy had a heart of gold, he didn’t believe in taking advantage or doing wrong to anyone, especially children or the elderly, and Lord help anyone who hurt a child or animal around him. Randy was a straightforward man, and if he liked you, he liked you, and if he didn’t, he didn’t, and you never had to wonder where you stood with him, because he had no problem telling you.
An avid fisherman, Randy never had to tell “fish stories”, if he told you he caught a mess of ‘em, that’s because he did and had a cooler full to prove it. There are few fish that found themselves on Randy’s hook that ever lived to tell about it. And if you ever asked where he caught his fish, he would happily tell you, in the water.
Randy leaves to cherish his memory, His wife Nancy Pope Tolley, the love of his life, with whom he recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. His two sons, Randolph Garrett Tolley and partner Dr. Marvin L. Garcia, of Corpus Christi TX. Christopher Morgan Tolley and wife Alanna Pfaff Tolley, of Winston Salem NC. His brother Charles D. Tolley (Barbara), of Palm Harbor FL. Sisters in law, Vickie Tolley, Whiteville NC; Jessie P. Vogt (Ed), Madison Heights, VA; Mary P. Thomas (Jeffrey), Hallsboro, NC; Fredann Pope, Winter Haven, FL.
Randy was preceded in death by his parents, John Thomas (Bud) Tolley, and Betty Jean Bullock Tolley. And brothers, Fredrick Eugene Tolley, and John Harvey Tolley
A funeral service will be held at 568 Wilson Barefoot Road Hallsboro, NC, on Friday, September 8th at 11:00 AM. Reverend Steven Bailey of Conway, SC and Reverend John McLaughlin of Wilmington, NC will be officiating.
“Randy style” casual summer attire.
McKenzie Mortuary is serving the Tolley Family.
