Born on April 2, 1942, in Mt. Vernon, Illinois to Ernest L. Toney and Anna Charlene (Quinn) Toney. On September 19, 1961, Sam married the love of his life, Loy Sue Bradford and she survives.
Sam is lovingly remembered by his devoted wife of 63 years, Sue Toney of Mt. Vernon. Together, they nurtured a beautiful family, including their daughter Sammie Oliver of Mt. Vernon. He leaves behind a legacy of love in his grandchildren: Ashley Adams and husband David of Texas, Brittney Jablonski and husband Mark of Mt. Vernon, Sydnee Glover and husband Chad of Mt. Vernon, Tyler Toney of Mt. Vernon, Christina Donovan and husband Gavin of Mt. Vernon, Makynzi Oliver, and Daegon Oliver, both of Mt. Vernon. Sam was a proud great-grandfather to Abigail Adams, Baylee Backues, Emma Adams, Madison Backues, Myles Toney, Ella Toney, Silas Glover, Navy Jablonski, Jaxton Jablonski, and Dahlilah Halfacre, all of whom brought immense joy to his life.
He is also survived by numerous brothers and sisters-in-law: Sonny Bradford and wife Madeline of Mt. Vernon, Jason Bradford and wife Kathy of Mt. Vernon, Johnny Bradford and wife Sharon of Oklahoma, Billie Kerns and husband Dick of Centralia, Becky Drennan and husband Stan of Mt. Vernon, Linda McKinney and husband Dennis of Scott City, Missouri, and Tracy Frassato of Mt. Vernon. Sam’s family extends to a host of loving nieces and nephews.
Sam was preceded in death by his parents, his son Mark Toney, brother Gary Toney, and brothers-in-law Jack Bradford and David Bradford. Despite the loss, his spirit and love remain with those who survive him.
Known for his enduring sense of humor and love for the outdoors, Sam was a devoted family man who cherished every moment with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His faith was exemplified through his membership at the Central Christian Church in Mt. Vernon, where he not only worshipped but also formed lasting friendships and found spiritual comfort. Sam lived a fulfilled and vibrant life surrounded by his beloved family and friends. Sammy L. Toney’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to family and faith. He will be dearly missed but remembered with great fondness and gratitude.
Per Sam’s wishes, cremation rites will be accorded, and a Private Family Celebration of Life will be held at a later date to honor his memory and legacy. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to his Family and will be accepted at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home and Cremation Services, located at 235 North Sycamore Street, Centralia, Illinois, 62801, who is honored to be of service to Sam’s family. For more information, please call (618)532-3523. Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com and the Funeral Home Facebook Page.
