LuAnn Toles' Obituary
LuAnn was born in Pasadena, Texas, in 1969—a time when the medical community often advised parents of newborns with Down syndrome to relinquish their children to state care, warning, "This child will be a burden. It’s best to sign her over to the State of Texas and move on with your life."
Fortunately, David and Sara Toles were guided by compassionate advocates from the Arc of Texas, who helped them see the incredible blessing LuAnn would be—not just to their lives, but to so many others. Growing up in the Clear Lake City area, LuAnn had the opportunity to participate in various programs for children with special needs. She blossomed into a warm and affectionate child, known for her radiant smile and love of giving hugs.
LuAnn was an active participant in the Special Olympics for many years, competing in swimming, track and field, and bowling. Her dedication took her to Stowe, Vermont, where she participated in snow skiing at the Winter Games. She even attended the International Special Olympics in Brussels where she was one of four athletes from the USA to be on the swimming relay team with the King & Queen of Belgium in attendance. After graduating from Cy-Fair High School in 1991, she was a productive citizen, working at places like Blockbuster Video and McDonald's. However, her longest role was as a Cafeteria Aide at Wilson Elementary School, where she made a lasting impact over 16 years before retiring in 2020.
For much of her adult life, LuAnn lived in a loving host home run by Karen Henderson, where the two formed an incredible “sistership”. Her home was part of a program administered by Reach Unlimited, an organization that continues to support approximately 300 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In honor of LuAnn’s memory, the family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Reach Unlimited at https://reachunlimited.networkforgood.com/projects/120383-operating-funds.
LuAnn will always be remembered for her radiant joy, infectious smile, warm hugs, and sharp wit. She had a deep love for her family, her church, and the simple pleasures in life—especially chocolate chip cookies, going to summer camp, trips to Alabama, and Texas Aggie football. We take comfort in knowing that LuAnn is now with Jesus, having received the ultimate victory that we all aspire to experience one day.
LuAnn’s family warmly invites all who loved her to join in celebrating her life at West Houston Church of Christ on Saturday, February 22. The viewing will begin at 1 PM, followed by a Memorial Service at 2 PM and a Life Celebration at 3 PM. The church is located at 17100 West Rd, Houston, TX 77095. For directions, please visit https://maps.app.goo.gl/hgDRbnnxt8BqCDVeA .
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