Obituary of Doris Neal Toler

Doris Neal Toler, 78, passed away surrounded by her loving family on Sunday, February 23, 2014. She is preceded in death by her parents, Tavous and Gladys Neal. Doris is survived by her loving husband of 57 years, Fred “Freddy” Toler; sons, Dale Toler and wife, Sharon, Chris Toler and wife, Jenny; daughter, Ava Palatiere; sisters, Libby Clayton and husband, David, Alice Pearson and husband, Carl, Patsy Moore and husband Dwayne; grandchildren, Garret and Sarah Toler, Leigh-Ann Lucas and husband, Colin, Reid Palatiere; great grandchildren, Dylan and Valerie Lucas; all of the Brashier family that she remained very close to throughout her life; and a host of other family and friends. Doris and Fred were teenagers when they met at the drug store soda fountain where she worked. Fred wanted to see the beautiful girl his friends were talking about, he was immediately smitten and so was Doris. This first meeting at the soda counter blossomed into a high school romance, which led to a wonderful marriage lasting for over 57 years. Doris’ H.S. Senior yearbook is covered with pledges of affection and friendship on almost every page, but on the last page clearly written in her hand “Reserved for Freddy.” Fred filled the page with a loving devotional expressing his love forever. Doris attended San Benito High School, while Fred went to Harlingen High School. She was in the band and photos show her posing in her drum major uniform and twirling. She must have enjoyed music and the San Benito H.S. Band, because she made sure that Dale and Ava took music lessons and participated in the school band. Neither lasted long in the band, but the experience was worthwhile. Doris went on to graduate from Durham Business School and would eventually work for the City of Harlingen, as a librarian for Concordia University, the IRS and retiring as a Civilian Account Administrator for the United States Army. She loved cooking for her family and was especially fond of experimenting with new recipes. Doris enjoyed playing the slots but was always careful never to play recklessly. She and Fred made many trips to the Coushatta Casino and looked forward to traveling as long as it wasn’t too far and for never too long. Doris’ true love was her family and she cherished every opportunity she had to spend with her husband, children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and sisters. She had a practical approach to life and gave the most sensible counsel, wisdom and advice. Doris will be greatly missed by all that knew and loved her and find comfort in knowing she is no longer in pain. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that remembrance gifts be directed in Doris’ memory to Heart to Heart Hospice of Austin, 4009 Banister Lane, Suite 100, Austin, TX 78704. Heart to Heart was of great comfort and assistance to the family during Doris’ final days and everyone associated with Heart to Heart gave Doris loving care. A Memorial Service for Doris will be held on Saturday, March 1, 2014 at 12:00 pm at Clayton Funeral Home, 5530 W. Broadway, Pearland, Texas 77581.