Darrell Ray Tolson

Darrell Ray Tolson, age 73 of North Judson IN, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 12, 2026. Darrell was born on September 14, 1952. Darrell was the first-born son, one of seven children to Truman and Doris (Eley) Tolson. Darrell’s parents proceeded him in death, as did his brother Glenn Alan Tolson and a great niece Truette Joyce Tolson. Darrell is survived by his siblings (in Chronological Order) Mabel Dee Tolson North Judson, Roy Ronald Tolson (Franke) Jackson Georgia, Dollie Lee Shepherd North Judson, Truman Kevin Tolson (Linda) Missoula Montana, and Harry James Tolson (Debra Glover) North Judson. He is survived by nephews and nieces, Christopher Shepherd (Trina), Kenneth Ford (Ann), Jennifer-Shepherd Madsen (Kerry), Glenna Rae Ford-Yurgilas, Heath Allen Minix, Terrence Tolson (Bailey) and Matthew Glenn Tolson-Cook (Pam). Darrell is survived by the following great nephews and nieces. Hunter Shepherd, Sarah Shepherd, Brianna Madsen, Kerry Madsen Jr, Brian Yurgilas, Bryce Yurgilas, Tre Tolson, Tenley Tolson and Owen Cook. Darrell was preceded in death by all his paternal aunts and uncles, except for Karen Tolson of Knox. Darrell maternal aunts and uncles also preceded him in death with the exception Beverly (Eley) Barnes (Jack) of Laporte, and Barbara Eley of North Carolina. He is survived by numerous cousins, all of whom he loved dearly. Darrell spoke often of people who were like family to him – Joe Cronkhite (Bullhead City, AZ), Clifford Stephens (Knox) as they loved to razz each other, Mario Villeanueava (San-Pierre), Tim Fisher, (North Judson) and his favorite (as he referred to her) Barbara Ann Gumz-Patterson (North Judson). Darrell attended and graduated from NJSP high School, class of 1970. He briefly attended Indiana State University. Darrell was an avid reader, enjoyed playing the saxophone while in school. He found joy in the simple pleasures of a competitive hand of cards or playing ambitious game of pool. He enjoyed listening to music and was always an Elvis Presley fan. The “softer” side of Darrell was seen when he assisted in the care of Gerald Paras. They spent many hours together, earning each other’s respect. He also had a kind heart for helping children any chance he was given. Darrell never knew a stranger, talking to anyone who would engage in conversation. He ran the Bass Lake Consignment, for several years in Winamac before returning to North Judson. Arrangements are being made by O’Donnell Funeral Home in North Judson In. Viewing will be on Tuesday, March 17,2026 from 11am to 1pm, at which time the funeral will occur. Following cremation, a burial will take place at Highland Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to O’Donnell Funeral Home.

Darrell Ray Tolson

September 14, 1952 - March 12, 2026