Barbara Tolley

Barbara Jean Tolley died peacefully in her home in Holly Springs, North Carolina on the morning of January 13, 2026 at the age of 83. She was born December 24, 1942 in Van Wert, Ohio to Mildred Marcille (Williman) Stetler and Wayne Monroe Stetler. She spent her formative years in Van Wert and attended Ohio State University where she met Peter Tolley. They married in 1964 and adopted a son, Nick, and had two children together, Christopher and Sabrina before their divorce in 1982.

Barbara lived in Grand Rapids, Michigan for most of her life, where she raised her three children and cared for her aging mother. She enjoyed gardening, the arts, and “buying and selling”, always on the hunt for unique art and collectibles. She later moved to Holly Springs, North Carolina for warmer climes and to be closer to family, where she continued to be an avid gardener. She is survived by her son, Chris Tolley (Lisa), her daughter, Sabrina Tolley (Joy Ableman), four grandchildren, Adam Tolley, Alissa Sattler, and Jonathan Tolley, and Aria Tolley, and nieces and nephews.

She will be remembered for her kindness, creativity, and DIY approach to life. In accordance with her wishes, her ashes will be scattered privately.