January 29, 2022, at the age of 91. He was born February 12, 1930 in Des Moines, Iowa to the
proud parents of John Arthur Tolson and Geraldine K. Buckner, he was the third of six children. His
siblings include: Betty L. Murray, Jacquelyn Williams, Arla M. Hollins, Tony Williams, Paula
Morris and Jonnetta Camp-bey.
Jimmy enlisted in the U.S. Army at the age of 17 and retired from military service after 24 years of Honorable service. As a Medic, he served in Korea and two tours in Viet Nam.
Jimmy married Annabelle (Belle) C. Collins on September 6, 1966 in Jefferson City, Missouri, celebrating sixty years of marriage before her passing in August 2019.
He graduated with honors and an Associate Degree. In 1972, Jimmy and his family relocated to Denver, Colorado. He was blessed with four sons, Eric Cerf, Sr., Lloyd Kelly, Anthony Lee and Paul Kelly. In Denver, he served another 20 years with the Air Force Finance Center. He served as a mentor to many young adults and was revered by family and friends. He served as an AA sponsor to many men throughout the years. He always let his family know he was their only Uncle. His favorite saying in jest to his kids was "I am not your Mom!" even though he was devoted to meeting their every need. He was an avid bowler and enjoyed watching boxing. He was dedicated to his family and throughout their lives, he and Belle, welcomed family and friends to their home, for brief or extended stays. Jimmy provided
guidance and support to family and friends in need. He will be remembered for staying true to
his principles and leading by example.
He is survived by his sons: Eric Cerf, Sr., Seattle, Washington, Lloyd Kelly (Andre), New Orleans,
Louisiana, Anthony Lee, Minneapolis, Minnesota, Paul Kelly (Eloise), Northglenn, Colorado,
great niece, Thea L. Murray, Denver, Colorado, God daughter, Jessica Helper, Denver,
Colorado, siblings: Jacquelyn Williams, Arla Hollins, Paula Morris and Jonnetta Camp-bey of Des
Moines, Iowa, Tony Williams, Texas, grandchildren/great grandchildren: Christopher Kelly,
Collin Kelly, Eric Cerf Jr., Aaron Cerf, Jordan Cerf, Amir Cert, Anyah Cerf, Jason Cole, Cheresa
Cole Anthony Blumer and Blake Blumer, in addition to numerous nephews, nieces, cousins, in-laws
and friends.
He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Annabelle C. Tolson, his parents, his sister Betty L
Murray, nephews Ralph l. Murray Jr., Raymond S. Murray and Michael J Simmons Jr and great
niece Brittany Murray.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.olingerhighland.com for the Tolson family.
