Ernest “Ernie” Tolliver Jr, age 86 of Bellbrook went home to be with the Lord, Jesus Christ on Wednesday March 18, 2026. He was born on March 17, 1940 in Harlan, Ky. Later in life he met the love of his life on May 15, 1959 on a blind date. They were married just a few months later on January 30, 1960 in the parsonage of Beacon Light Baptist Church in St Charles, Virginia.
For 66 years, Ernest (Ernie) always gave Joyce one red rose on their anniversary, telling her that she was the one and only for him. Even after Joyce went to be with the Lord in 2021, he never missed their anniversary.
He was an amazing man who loved his family and his church family. He was a proud member of First Baptist Church of St Charles, Virginia and First Baptist Church Kettering of Dayton, Ohio.
He is survived by his daughters and son; Vicki Tolliver Preston (Scott) of Fairborn, Ohio; Mark Tolliver (Tammy) of Pennington Gap, Virginia; Kristie Tolliver Koogler (Chris) of Bellbrook, Ohio; Seven grandchildren (Brian Tolliver, Sarah Grimes, Luke Grimes, Cieara Tolliver Davenport (Robbie), Colten Koogler (Alyssa), Colen Koogler (Hannah) and Corine Koogler); One great-grandson (Abram) and his beloved dog (Max).
A celebration of life and graveside service for both Ernest and Joyce will be held this summer in Virginia.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Ohio Hospice of Dayton 324 Wilmington Ave Dayton, Ohio 45420
“God is good, all the time” -Ernest Tolliver Jr
