Sally Jane Tolbert

On Tuesday, February 20, 2024, the angels rejoiced as Sally Jane Akers Tolbert peacefully departed this life for The Kingdom of Heaven. She was one of the lucky ones who ascend, from this world to the next, blissfully sleeping, in her own warm bed, in her own cozy home.

Sally Jane was born on April 19, 1937, in Riner, VA, to Loraine Ethlyn Howard Akers and Charles Lee Akers, Sr. The youngest daughter of their eleven children, she was preceded in death by her mother and father; brothers, Charles Akers, Jr., Winston Akers, William "Bill" Akers, Frank Tyler Akers, Ronnie Bruce Akers; and sisters, Edith Sledd and Eileen Patrick. Sally was also predeceased by her sister-in-law, Trula Kiser Akers (Winston), to whom she was always grateful for providing her with love, support, and guidance throughout her life.

Her legacy of strength and resilience is carried on by her two daughters of whom she was most proud, Lisa Jo Ellis and her husband, Robert, their son, Kyle Robert Ellis, and their daughter, Kathryn Olivia Ellis; and her younger daughter, Toni Tolbert Mastro and her son, Jacob Quinn Mastro. Sally is also survived by her three older sisters, Roberta Ann "Bobbie" Morrissette, Donna Roberts, and Dalene Zahn.

After graduating from Auburn High School, Sally worked at the local car dealership, and did occasional modeling for The Radford News Journal and local department stores. She later moved to Fort Belvoir, VA, where she began a 32-year career with the U.S. Government.

"Gramma Sally" was a most ardent admirer of her grandchildren and was keenly interested in all their endeavors. She was their active pal, cherished friend, and companion. With her playful spirit, she was always ready to join in their adventures and create unforgettable memories. Whether it was watching fireworks on the Fourth of July, exploring Maymont Park, or simply sharing stories and laughter, Sally made every moment special.

Sally adored her family and her eyes shone with pride at the thought of them. With girlish excitement, she looked forward to the annual Akers Family Reunion at the Hopewell home of Danny Vaughn and his late wife, Patty Akers Vaughn.

Sally was an avid reader and enjoyed all manners of puzzles. Later in life, Sally applied her earlier dance instruction, and joined several area line-dancing troupes and performed at numerous community events including Hooray for Hopewell, as well as, at local nursing homes. Physical fitness was very important to Sally and many Hopewell residents became accustomed to seeing her miles-long walks through the city.

Family and friends will fondly remember Sally as compassionate, caring, and loyal. She had a remarkable talent for finding beauty in the unseen and making the ordinary seem extraordinary. Her unique perspective added a touch of magic to everyday life, enriching the lives of those around her. The thought of Sally will always bring a reminder of the essence of a good life: gratitude for what you have. Her presence was a testament to finding joy in the simple things and appreciating the blessings, big and small. We will think of her whenever we hear the crinkle of a water bottle.

Funeral arrangements are being administered by the Hopewell Chapel of J.T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m., on Saturday, March 23, 2024, at the funeral home.