Ella Faye (Jernigan) Toler

Ella Faye Jernigan Toler, 79, of Kinston, NC, passed away peacefully, Thursday, December 11, surrounded by those she loved the most. Ella Faye was a loving wife, devoted mother, cherished grandmother, and faithful servant of the Lord.

She was a woman whose life was defined by love- love for her husband of almost 57 years, whom she adored dearly and love for her family, whom she cherished immensely. Her home was always a place of warmth and welcome, kept with care and pride. She especially treasured time with her grandchildren and looked forward to sleepovers filled with laughter, stories, and love.

She found great joy in arts and crafts, decorating for the holidays, especially with her beloved Christmas lights, and filling her home with beauty and creativity.

An avid lover of the outdoors, she enjoyed fishing, spending time at the pier, creek, and fishpond, relaxing by the water and people watching. Gardening brought her peace, and cooking was one of the many ways she showed love to those around her. She also enjoyed playing Rummy and never missed an opportunity to laugh, joke, and cut up with family and friends.

Her faith was the foundation of her life. A dedicated member of Briary Run Pentecostal Holiness Church, she loved the Lord first and foremost, living her life as a reflection of that devotion. Her smile could light up a room, and her presence brought comfort and joy to all who knew her.

Though she will be deeply missed, her legacy of faith, love, laughter, and family will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.

She is preceded in death by her parents, William “Bill” and Thelma Jernigan and brother, Robert Jernigan.

Ella Faye is survived by her beloved husband, James Toler, of the home, daughters; Rhonda Toler Daughety and husband Craig of Kinston and Crystal Toler of Pink Hill, son; William Carroll Toler and fiancé Paula Branch of Kinston, sister, Nancy Albert and husband David, grandchildren; Hunter Toler, Landon Toler, Annabelle Murphy, Mackenzie Daughety, Ashtyn Toler, and Jameson Toler, and two great grandchildren; Thomas Toler and Emersyn Toler.

Visitation will be held at Howard-Carter Funeral Home on Sunday, December 14, 2025, at 6:00 p.m.

Funeral Services will be held at Howard-Carter Funeral Home on Monday, December 15, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Norman Smith officiating. Burial will follow immediately following the service at Pinelawn Memorial Park in Kinston.