On the evening of January 14, 2025, at her home in Salina, Kansas, Mary Nan Toothman ran to her savior with open arms. She passed away peacefully at home with loved ones by her side. She was greeted at heaven’s gates by her savior, as well as her husband of 54 years, Carl Toothman; her parents, Paul and Marguerite Lowe; her brothers Bill, Paul, and John Kim Lowe and Mick Lowe; her sister Therese Lowe-Smith; her son William (Billie) Toothman, her grandsons Billy James Toothman, Aaron Rothrock, Paul Degraw, and Tracy Toothman, and great-grandsons Hunter and William Doughman.
Born on August 11, 1932, in San Antonio, Texas, Nan’s journey was a testament to resilience. Despite facing serious health challenges as a child, she defied the odds and lived a rich, full life of 92 years. Throughout her life, she remained steadfast in her belief that God had a purpose for her, and she devoted herself to serving others, always with a servant’s heart.
Nan’s life was one of unwavering faith, compassion, and service, from her devoted care of children in the church’s ministry to her gentle outreach to the elderly in nursing homes. Through her selfless acts of kindness, Nan touched countless lives, offering comfort, encouragement, and a reminder of God's grace.
Her contributions to Grace Baptist Temple’s Children’s Ministry, where she drove a Sunday school bus, showed her deep compassion. Whether providing breakfast for kids who lacked it or helping them feel loved and valued by brushing their hair, Nan was a powerful force in the lives of so many. Her visits to nursing homes, often accompanied by her grandchildren, further exemplified her loving spirit. She understood the power of presence—how the companionship of children could bring joy and comfort to those who had been forgotten.
Nan’s faith was her cornerstone. She shared Christ’s love, speaking of the salvation He offers to all who believe. Her legacy is one of warmth, faith, and dedication to her family and others.
Nan’s hobbies were anything that had to do with her family. She had the gift of making everyone around her feel loved and cherished. Her greatest joy came from spending time with her family, and she poured her entire heart into supporting their passions. Whether it was cheering on her children and grandchildren in their pursuits and dreams or ensuring every family member was well cared for. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Nan's life was a testament to love and unwavering support for her family.
One of Nan’s greatest joys was hosting family gatherings, where the kitchen was always filled with the delicious smells of her home-cooked meals. Among her many culinary talents, her fried chicken with all the fixings was a favorite that no one could resist. Her meals were more than just food; they reflected her love and care. Nan’s love language was food, and she would offer anyone who came over a home-cooked meal.
She will be deeply missed by her family and all who were blessed to know her, but her memory will live on in the many lives she touched and the countless souls that she prayed for and led to Christ. May her spirit continue to inspire others to serve with the same love, grace, and compassion she exemplified every day of her life.