With hearts tender and reflective, we gather in spirit to honor the life of Margaret Ann "Andrews" Toma, who passed from this world on August 29, 2025, to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, at the age of 83. Born on March 28, 1942, in Houston, Texas, Margaret's story is woven with resilience, spirited independence, and her devotion to family, work, animals, and the simple joys of life.

Lewis and Maxine Andrews had two beautiful daughters, Alva Lee and Margaret Ann, and together, at an early age, their lives took a transformative turn. The sisters moved from Houston to Eldorado, Kansas, entrusted into the care of their grandparents Margaret and Edwin Andrews—a household that had raised 10 children of their own. In this lively, multigenerational home, Margaret learned the rhythms of family and the value of kinship. The halls echoed with laughter, the kitchen buzzed with activity, and the fields outside were a sanctuary for innocent adventure with her sister and many cousins.

Educated in the schools of Eldorado, Margaret flourished through her junior year. The Kansas sun seemed to nurture her independent spirit and feisty nature—a quality that would become her hallmark. Yet, as is so often the case, the call of love charted a new course. Margaret married, had two children and moved to Memphis, Tennessee to embark on an adventure of the unknown.

Two years later, she took on the formidable role of a single mother, raising and supporting her children with courage, resourcefulness, and commitment. Life, with all its unexpected turns, soon brought another husband and child into her care—an opportunity to once more expand her circle of love and support. Through each challenge, Margaret met adversity with resolve and a gleam in her eye, determined that her children would know the security and warmth of a mother's devotion.

Outside the bustle of motherhood and work, Margaret found solace and delight in music. The gospel music of Tennessee Ernie Ford, the twang of Alan Jackson and the velvet voice of Elvis Presley filled her ears and heart, accompanying her through the highs and lows. Music was her companion, her reprieve, and her celebration—a soundtrack to a life fully lived.

But perhaps Margaret's deepest passion was reserved for horses. She delighted in their beauty, strength, and spirit. Buying, selling, and caring for horses became not just a

pastime, but a pursuit that defined much of her life. Her favorite companions, Skip and Casey, held a special place in her heart, their presence offering comfort and adventure in equal measure. Margaret's love for horses was undiminished by age; at 80, she insisted on riding—undeterred by the worry of her children. This determination to continue living vibrantly, to feel the wind in her hair and the rhythm of hooves beneath her, spoke volumes of her zest for life.

Margaret's greatest joy was her family. After retirement, she moved from Memphis to El Dorado to be near her aunt and cousins, living another 16 years until the Lord called her home. Margaret was a member of First United Methodist in El Dorado and loved her Sunday School class. She cherished her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, reveling in their laughter, triumphs, and milestones. Every visit, every phone call, every photo was precious to her. She celebrated their uniqueness, offering wisdom and wit in equal measure. Her unconditional love and prayers offered to the Lord for each of them, have left an indelible mark on generations.

Margaret's family is her enduring legacy. She is survived by her beloved children: LeAnn (David) Mills, David (Jessica) Page, and Amy (Gary) Fraser. Her grandchildren include Brian (Larianne) Mills, Ashlee Mills, David Page Jr., Courtney Page, Katie (Johnny) Parker, Zachary Page, John Page, Maggie (Jacob) Hatcher, and Trey Fraser, 7 great grandchildren and many cousins and nieces. Each one carries a piece of her spirit—feisty, compassionate, strong-willed, and loving.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lewis Andrews and Maxine Ferree, her grandparents Margaret and Edwin Andrews, her dear sister Alvalee, aunt Ruby, and many dear cousins. Their memories are woven together in the tapestry of her life, each thread representing love, loss, and the enduring bonds of family.

Margaret approached life with inexhaustible energy and a signature feisty side. She was, by turns, sweet and formidable. Friends and family knew her as someone whose kindness was matched only by her willfulness—a gentle soul unless you found yourself on her "sour side," a phrase often spoken with affectionate laughter.

She lived with integrity and a sense of adventure, never backing down from a challenge and always seeking the next joy. Whether tending her horses, working at Kroger for 30 years, enjoying family and friends or holding a grandchild close.

Those who knew Margaret remember her as a force of nature, a beacon of love, and a model of perseverance. Her story is one of adaptation and courage. She believed in hard work, in loyalty, and in the enduring power of family. Her laughter, her music, and her stories will echo for years in the hearts of those she touched.

The world feels different without her—a little quieter, a little lonelier, yet infinitely richer for her having been here.

Margaret Ann "Andrews" Toma's journey has come to its close on earth but just beginning in eternity with Jesus. As we say goodbye for now, let us honor her by living with the same passion, resilience, and love that she gave so freely. May her memory be a blessing, her legacy a guide, and her story an inspiration to all.

Rest in peace with the Lord, Margaret. Your ride was wild, your song was sweet, and your heart was forever open. We will miss you dearly and cherish every memory you have left behind.

Memorial donations may be made in Margaret's memory to the Alzheimer's Association. Website is alz.org