Natalie Tolman

Natalie J Tolman, a beloved mother, grandmother, aunt and friend, passed peacefully in her favorite chair on May 26 after a long decline in health.

Born in Houston Texas on August 20, 1930, Natalie grew up enjoying all the things the city had to offer. She graduated from the University of Houston with a degree in art and was dedicated to her craft her entire life with many of her paintings hanging in homes across the United States. At the University, Natalie met and then married the love of her life, Charles Tolman, an engineering student.

A devout Christian Scientist, Natalie believed that who you are and what you do with your life on earth is of the highest importance. She believed in positive thinking and went through life expecting good. In addition to her art work and her job in interior decorating, Natalie devoted herself to helping others and volunteering in the community in Heber Springs and Hot Springs. She was a founding member of the Heber Springs Arts Council and a valued volunteer at the women’s shelter, the library, the hospital, and Helping Hands. When she was in her 70s she became a CASA volunteer, helping children in foster care which required that she drive all over the state in pursuit of the absolute best outcome for the children she had been assigned.

Natalie and Charles loved to travel. They loved going on tours across the United States and visited Europe more than once. She organized large family adventures both in Heber Springs and on cruises.

Family was extremely important to her. Natalie took great pride in serving as the Matriarch of a large and loving family and served as a wonderful example to those who loved her. Whether it was teaching grandchildren the proper, gentile way to set a table, or demonstrating grace under pressure, Natalie was a living testament to always striving to be your best self.

Natalie is survived by her three children, Patricia Jenkins of Houston, Laurie Lovett of Hot Springs, and Davis Tolman of Houston; an admiring daughter-in-law Valerie, Laurie’s long-term partner Tony Gendusa, 8 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.grossfuneralhome.com for the Tolman family.