Delores Ann Tolbert

Delores Ann Tolbert, a woman of love and faith, passed away peacefully on May 3, 2025, at the age of 81. Born on September 11, 1943, in Dover, Florida, Delores's life was a testament to her enduring kindness and the joy she brought to everyone around her. She passed away in Plant City, Florida, surrounded by the love of her family and the memories of a life richly lived.

Delores's journey through life was marked by devotion to her family and her faith. She was a cherished wife to her first husband, James Lamar Williams, for 22 years until his passing, and then to her second husband, Rexal Lee Tolbert, for 30 years, who also preceded her in death. Together with James, she raised three daughters: Sandra Hartzell (Frank), Ginger Williams, and Teresa Wood (survived by her husband, Chip), who sadly left this world too soon. Delores also embraced her role as a stepmother to Regina Tolbert and Rex "Bubba" Tolbert, adding further warmth to her extended family.

She was a sister to Gayle Sharon Smith, who has since passed, and leaves behind a legacy that includes nine grandchildren and twenty-two great-grandchildren, each of whom brought immense joy and pride to her life. Among them, her #1 granddaughter, Casey Saladino, held a very special place in Delores's heart, illuminating her world with a unique and cherished bond.

Delores's life was marked by her active involvement in The Deliverance Tabernacle of Plant City, where she not only attended but also served as a Sunday school teacher. Her commitment to her church community was unwavering, and she could always be counted on to lend a supportive hand or a listening ear. She was a woman whose faith illuminated the path for many, guiding them through her example of compassion and unwavering trust in her beliefs.

Her talents were many, and her hands were never idle. Delores was known for her exceptional quilting skills, creating beautiful pieces that were as much a comfort to the soul as they were to the body. Her culinary abilities were second to none, and many would claim that she was the best cook in the neighborhood. She took great pride in her cooking, often using it as a means to gather friends and family and foster community.

To her grandchildren, Delores was nothing short of extraordinary, earning her the playful title of "best grandma award" and affectionately being known as "the best ol' gal on the block." Her love was a quilt of its own design, wrapping each family member in warmth and comfort, stitched together with her laughter, stories, and unwavering support.

Those who knew Delores would describe her as loving, faith-filled, and kind. She navigated life's challenges with grace and always found a way to see the good in people and circumstances. Her legacy is one of love and faith, kindness and strength, and a life lived in service to others.

As we say goodbye to Delores Ann Tolbert, we celebrate the remarkable woman she was and the incredible impact she had on the lives of those fortunate enough to know her. Her spirit, teachings, and love will continue to live on through her family, friends, and all the lives she touched. Delores's story is not one of an ending, but a continuous ripple of love and kindness that will resonate for generations to come.


A graveside service will take place at Cedar Grove Baptist Cemetery on Friday, May 9th, 2025 at 10AM.
Online condolences can be made at www.haught.care.
Funeral arrangements were trusted to Haught Funeral Home, 708 W. Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd Plant City, FL 33563, (813) 717-9300