George Lorayne Tolbert passed away at home on January 3, 2019 at the age of 96. Born on June 17, 1922 in McCurtain Oklahoma, he was the second child of William Ervin and Rella Ray (nee McGuire) Tolbert.
He was predeceased by his parents, his four siblings, William Tolbert Jr., Tony Ray Tolbert, J.B. Tolbert, Merle Panter, and a daughter, Patricia Anne Tolbert. He is survived by two daughters, Sandra K. Tolbert (Edmond, OK) and Pamela S. Tolbert (Ithaca NY); a son-in-law, Steven P. Carver; five grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and a long-time partner, Beverly Williams.
George served his country as a pilot in the U.S. Air Force in three wars, WWII, Korea and Vietnam. He followed a military career in the Oklahoma Air National Guard, rising to the rank of lieutenant colonel.
He graduated from McCurtain High School in 1940, and after WWII, pursued a college education for many years while working full-time. He completed his baccalaureate in management science at Oklahoma City University after his retirement.
He was a devoted father and family man, a life-long learner, and an intrepid traveler. His generosity and integrity were appreciated by his many friends.
A memorial service will be held at All Souls Unitarian, 2952 S. Peoria in Tulsa, on June 16 at 4:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be sent to the George L. Tolbert Scholarship Fund, Eastern Oklahoma State College Foundation, 1301 W. Main, Wilburton OK 74578; or to the National Military Family Association (< https://www.militaryfamily.org >). Moore's Southlawn 918-663-2233 share memories at www.moorefuneral.com