James David Toler

James D. Toler was the first of four children born on April 16, 1942 in Indianapolis, IN to the union of Mickey and Alice Toler. On Tuesday, June 4, 2024, James (Jimmy) had his “last call” to end his tour of duty here on earth.

He graduated in 1960 from Crispus Attucks High School and served with the United States Navy, being deployed twice to Vietnam while on active duty.

Jimmy accepted Christ at a Friday night Bible study prior to his deployment. Though he wasn’t overly demonstrative about his faith and had a quiet demeanor in worship, Jimmy put his faith into action seven days a week, not just on Sundays.

Upon returning from the Navy, Jimmy worked with his dad in construction and the concrete finishing trade prior to embarking on a thirty-eight-year distinguished career with the Indianapolis Police Department beginning in 1963.

One of his early accomplishments was being named “Officer of the Year” in 1969. He served in a number of assignments working his way through the ranks as a sergeant, lieutenant, and captain. In addition to his regular duties, Jimmy became the department’s first Hostage/Crisis Negotiator and if you ever dared to get into a discussion with him, it was evident his skills of persuasion were highly developed and well-honed through his expertise in this role.

On January 1, 1992, Jimmy was appointed Chief of Police in Indianapolis. He was the first African-American Chief of Police in our city and held that position until September 1, 1995.

Another outstanding achievement by Chief Toler was being selected by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to attend their elite National Executive Institute in Quantico, VA for training with top law officials from across the country and some international leaders as well.

According to IPD, the cornerstone of his term was the implementation of Community Policing to build trust and understanding between the police department and the community it serves. This approach allows officers to work to solve problems rather than respond to the aftermath of crime and violence. Additionally, he changed the color of officer’s cars from dark blue to white to increase visibility and safety. So, every time we see a white law enforcement vehicle, we can thank Jimmy, the visionary, for his insight. Following his term as Chief of Police, Jimmy commanded IPD’s Downtown District and retired in 2001 after 38 years. In 2002, Jimmy was selected as Director of Security for the Indiana State Museum and retired from that position after nearly a decade.

Jimmy married the love of his life, Carole Marie (born Weir) on May 18, 1985. They had dated and were a couple while at Attucks together and reconnected years later. They remained best friends and soulmates until his passing 39 years later. He lovingly cared for her at their home after her health took a turn for the worse in January. They were both active members of Light of the World Christian Church until their health declined. Jimmy volunteered with the Youth Team on Tuesday nights to assist with security.

They spent many Saturdays and Sundays watching his beloved Indianapolis Colts and Notre Dame College football. Jazz was Jimmy’s favorite music genre and Baby Ruth candy bars were a weakness of his.

Jimmy’s mother and father preceded him in death, as well as his brother, Calvin Toler. Jimmy leaves to cherish his memory, his wife, Carole Marie Toler, sisters, Carmela Toler and Camille Ballinger (Kevin), daughter, Dena Toler, son, Carlos Bundles, stepchildren, Alecia and Micah Young, and his beloved and only grandchild, Journey, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives and friends.

He was loved, respected, and will be greatly missed.

Revelation 14:13 And I heard a voice from heaven saying, “Write this down; Blessed are those who die in the Lord from now on. Yes, says the Spirit, they are blessed indeed, for they will rest from their hard work; for their good deeds follow them.”

Well done, good and faithful servant! You are in your heavenly Father’s presence and your “tour of duty has ended.” Code 10:42

Humbly submitted by the family

A visitation for James will be held Sunday, June 16, 2024 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Crown Hill Funeral Home, 700 W. 38th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46208. A visitation will occur Monday, June 17, 2024 from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Light Of The World Christian Church, 4646 N Michigan Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46228. A celebration of life will occur Monday, June 17, 2024 at 12:00 PM at Light Of The World Christian Church, 4646 N Michigan Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46228.

James will be laid to rest in Crown Hill Cemetery, 700 W 38th St, Indianapolis, IN 46208.