TOLBERT, Steven Douglas (Steve)

The Verde Independent, Cottonwood, Arizona Thursday, October 23, 2014 Steven Douglas Tolbert - one of Mountain View United Methodist Church's true servant volunteers - went to be with the Lord Oct. 14, 2014 after being hospitalized Oct 6 with Marfan syndrome, a life-long genetic illness. Steve was born March 3, 1952 at Camden, NJ to Henry (deceased) and Marian Tolbert. Following graduation from high school at Blackwood, NJ, he worked to roofing and siding contractors before establishing his own business in that field. He later worked in factories, and then became a cross-country truck driver. He moved to Arizona in 2002, but had to leave the trucking industry about 2007, when he became disabled due to the Marfan syndrome. After living at Camp Verde, he moved to Cottonwood, where he became a member of Mountain View United Methodist. He as a consummate volunteer, heading up the United Methodist Men's moving ministry that assists members leaving the area or moving into care or assisted living facilities. He helped in the church's annual yard sale, and also assisted with the Angels' Attic holiday sale. Another task he did for several years was to maintain the church's marquee sign on 12th Street, putting up new messages weekly. Steve also was a volunteer for the community's Meals on Wheels program. Steve sang in the church's Chancel choir and the Verde Valley Voices. Among his survivors are his wife, Lois; his mother, Marian Riley of Cottonwood; two sons: Christopher in Texas, and Michael (Kim) at Parsippany, NJ, and two sisters: Anita in New Jersey, and Donna at Golden Valley, AZ. There was cremation by the Neptune Society. The family has suggested memorials to Mountain View United Methodist church's Pastor's Emergency Care Fund. Information provided by survivors.