NORENA JANE HAWKINS TOYER (AGE 95) OF MARBURY, MARYLAND

Norena Jane Hawkins Toyer was born February 9, 1924 in Pisgah, MD to the late Emma and Julius Hawkins. She was the youngest and last of thirteen siblings. Norena held many jobs throughout her life but most notable for being the sole proprietor of Norena's Lunchroom in Indian Head for many years. She enjoyed traveling, along with Mrs. Ida Mae Woods and sponsoring travel experiences within the United States and internationally. Such travel events were thoroughly enjoyed by all.

At a very young age, Norena joined Smith Chapel United Methodist Church and continued faithfully until her health began to fail. She served in the outreach ministry along with the late Laurette Smith and other women. Norena participated in the food sharing ministry which was responsible for obtaining food for distribution to needy families in the community.

In autumn of Norena's years, her health had declined with memory issues and mobility problems. However, her love for the Lord did not diminish. Visits from friends emoted smiles of joy in her and at times helped her to recall names of friends of by-gone years. One can truthfully say Mrs. Norena Jane Toyer had a heart of gold and indeed knew, "It is good to be here…" Moreover, Norena was credited with being the surrogate mother of many other children within the community. It is significant to note that "Ms. Toyer" was a loving Christian Mother who always welcomed a kiss from all and reciprocated.

Norena's reputation in the community precedes her especially as a singer and a cook. She began singing at an early age. It was a joy for her to sing and welcome the opportunity to use the innate gift that God gave her. She is reputed to have sung for alumni groups, choirs, funerals and weddings. Significantly, she organized the interdenominational Choir along with Ms. Jewel McMillan, pianist for Smith Chapel.

"Good to Be Here Children and Let Him Go" are the familiar responses from Norena Jane (nee Hawkins) Toyer, the 95-year-old grand matriarch and oldest member of Smith Chapel United Methodist Church.

She was the devoted wife of the late Edward "Ed" Toyer, Sr. and mother of her precious daughter Gail R. Toyer and Edna Brown (like a daughter).

Norena is survived by her Children; Barbara Washington (Jarriett), Renee I. Toyer-Tibbs (Gilbert), Edward R. Toyer, Jr., Ronald L. Toyer (Linda), Charles R. Toyer (Karla), Patricia Proctor (like a daughter) and Patricia Young (stepdaughter). Grandchildren; Tyrone Young, Vernell Young, Marcus Toyer, Stanley Hatton, Stephanie Chase, Kathy Chase and Vivian Stringer. Great Grandchildren; Patrick Young, Marguia Stringer, Amyra Stringer, Leigha Mcintire Stringer, Neko Hatton, Darrius Hatton, Javon Hatton, Ta'von Chase, Ta'mar Chase (deceased), Trevia Gray, Tavia Gray, Sydney Barnes and Leiaja Dorsey. Godchildren; Melvin Taylor (deceased), Harry Dunnington (deceased) and Herbert Kelton. She also leaves to mourn many nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.

Her viewing will be held from 9am until time of service 11am, on Friday, December 13, 2019, Thornton Funeral Home, P.A., 3439 Livingston Road, Indian Head, Maryland 20640.  Interment Smith Chapel United Methodist Church Cemetery, 7750 Poorhouse Road, LaPlata, MD 20646