Colleen Toler Gaskins

With a heart full of love and a spirit of adventure, Colleen Toler Gaskins made the world a brighter place during her time on this earth. Born on February 28, 1951, in Newport News, VA, Colleen found her way to the little community of Ernul, North Carolina, where she spent most of her life. She was a beloved wife, a loving mother, a doting grandmother, a cherished sister, and a compassionate friend, always willing to lend a listening ear or share a thoughtful prayer.

Colleen was a woman of many passions and talents. Her adventurous spirit was evident in her love for motorcycle rides alongside her husband, Steve, their trips to the beach and mountains, and her habitual quest for the next captivating novel. Her thoughtful nature was mirrored in her dedication to her Bible study group and her fervent prayers for others. Colleen was a longtime member of Macedonia Free Will Baptist Church where she passionately lent her voice to the choir, echoing the verse from Psalms, "Sing to the Lord, for He has done glorious things; let this be known to all the world."

Colleen's professional life was marked by a 29-year tenure at CarolinaEast Medical Center where she served dutifully as an insurance biller until her retirement in 2013. Her loving and compassionate nature extended to her work, where she was known for her unwavering dedication and commitment to her role. Yet, above all, what mattered most to Colleen was her family. She was a devoted wife to her husband, Steve, a nurturing mother to her sons, Clay and Michael, an adoring grandmother to her six grandchildren, and a caring sister to Connie and Joe.

Colleen is survived by her husband of 56 years, Steve; sons, Clay (Michelle), and Michael (Jordan); sister, Connie (Steve) Blevins; brother, Joe (Paula) Toler; grandchildren, Sarah (Jared), Madison, Tristan, Logan, Bennett, and Grayson. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jocephus and Addie Toler.

The family will receive friends from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 24, 2024 at Macedonia Free Will Baptist Church. Funeral service will begin at 1:00 p.m. and will be officiated by Pastor Kevin Jackson. Following the service at the church, she will be laid to rest in a private committal service for the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that contributions be made in Colleen's name to the Ladies Fellowship at Macedonia Free Will Baptist Church.

The family would like to express their deep appreciation to the nurses and staff of Craven County Hospice for the loving and compassionate care they provided to Colleen during her final days.

We celebrate the life of Colleen, a woman who was adventurous, thoughtful, loving, and compassionate in all areas of her life. Even as we mourn her passing, we celebrate the rich tapestry of life that she wove with her love and kindness.

We invite all who knew Colleen to share their memories and upload photos on her memorial page, enriching our collective remembrance of this beautiful soul.

Bennett Funeral & Cremation Care is honored to serve the family and friends of Colleen Gaskins.