September 19, 1951 – February 17, 2022
Michael Tolley, 70, Atlanta, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 17, 2022, with his loving family by his side. He was born on September 19, 1951, to his parents, Lawrence Tolley and Veva (Griffith) Tolley. Michael married the love of his life, Lea Ann (Waters) Tolley on June 23, 1984, and the two of them built an amazing life together through the years. Their love was based on faith, trust and loyalty; attributes that were of course passed on to their four beautiful children, as well as their many grandchildren.
Michael was born in Lebanon, Ind., and enjoyed his childhood very much. A lot of time was dedicated to family and quality time. Michael developed a love for the outdoors, fishing and camping after his father bought land and established White River Campground outside of Cicero. It was on the White River that most of Michael’s favorite childhood memories took place.
Michael graduated in 1969 from Hamilton Heights High School. He then went on to Mallory Tech, where he studied Carpentry. He earned the title of Carpenter Journeyman and became a master of the trade. Michael worked many places over the years, offering his meticulous craftsmanship; however, there were three main companies he was dedicated to: Urnstein, Towsley & Bixler and Cincinnati Floor, which is where he retired from in 2010. Michael not only loved his work at Cincinnati Floor, he very much loved the crew of guys he worked with. They were like brothers to him, and he often bragged about how blessed he was for the great rapport he shared with each of them.
In Michael’s spare time you may have found him playing ping pong, pool, darts, Wii golf or euchre. He was also a very gifted artist. Michael was constantly doodling, looking at car magazines, and enjoying every opportunity he had to watch Colts football.
Unlike many, Michael lived everyday life with his priorities straight! He was a family man in every sense of the word. He took time to make his wife, kids, and grandkids feel appreciated, valued and unconditionally loved. His faith in the Lord was very important to him, and he was a daily example to many in his life. Michael seldom got angry; actually, his amazing sense of humor led the way! He was truly one of a kind and will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him!
Those left to carry on Michael’s legacy of love are his wife, Lea Tolley; children, James Michael Tolley, Crystal (Angel) Tolley, Frances Jones, Annabel (Derrick) Tolley-Wolfe; grandchildren, Laney Tolley, Lucas Tolley, Logan Tolley, Beth (Ben) Ramsey, Cylys Emler, Cayla Emler, Mason Sizemore, Alexis and Phoenix Sizemore, Robert Sizemore, Cade Sizemore, Michael Tolley-Jones, Chloe Jones, Embyr Wolfe, Wrylee Wolfe; siblings, Jon (Anne) Tolley and Dan Tolley; many nieces, nephews, cousins, many dear friends, as well as beloved cat, Dale.
Michael was welcomed into Heaven by his parents, Lawrence Tolley and Veva Tolley; grandson, Peyton Jones; siblings, Lawrence “Bud” Tolley, Rose Ellen “Rosie” Shalkowski; nieces and nephews (who were like siblings to him), Kurt Shalkowski, Larry Tolley, Mark Tolley, Jennifer Wallace; a great-nephew, Brett; many dear friends; and beloved cat, Taylor.
A celebration of life service in Michael’s honor will be held at 4 p.m. on Sunday, March 6, 2022, at Atlanta Christian Church, 200 E. Main St., Atlanta, with Pastor Jody Brown officiating. Visitation for family and friends will be held prior to the service from 2 to 4 p.m. at the church.