Paul Toliver, 62, of Springfield, passed away Tuesday, June 23, 2015 at the OSU Medical Center Tulsa, OK. He was born on December 13, 1952. He was the son of Isadore and Velma Toliver. He was raised by his grandmother Bertha Mae Adams (Granny). He was baptized at Progressive Baptist Church. He graduated from Booker T. Washington High in Tulsa. Paul was awarded a basketball scholarship to play for the BEARS at Southwest Missouri State in 1971-73. Paul was united in marriage to Joyce A. Graves in August 1974. He was employed by Burlington Northern and was a 35 year employee of General Electric/Regal Beloit. He is survived by his loving wife Joyce of 41 years; two sons, Christopher Graves (Natalie White) and Jason Toliver (Deleicia); grandchildren, Payton and Kennedy Graves, Elayjiah, Jeveo', Tyrese, Ju'Lious and James Toliver; father and mother in law Sherman and Margie Graves; brothers in law, Raymond Graves (Marie), James Graves (Chris Allen), Mark Graves (Zetta), and Mike Johnson (Rachelle); sister in law Mary Small (John); family friends Richard and Karolyn Young all of Missouri; cousin Joe (Henrietta) Walker and family; best friend Joe Sheets; extended family Kevin and Debbie Crisp, Chuck and Wila Midget, Keenon Meadors and Harry Hamilton, all of Tulsa; and a host of family, cousins, friends, nephews and nieces. Paul was preceded in death by his grandmother Bertha Adams and daughter in law Becca Toliver. Paul was given the nickname of "Devil" which came with him from Tulsa. All of the players that he played with through the years knew and called him by that name. He was known to be an aggressive player. Paul supported and followed his sons, nephews, and grandchildren throughout their many activities/sports. Silver and Black were two of Paul's favorite colors because he was a loyal, die-hard Raider fan. Funeral services will be held on Friday, July 3, 2015 at 11 am at Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home. A visitation will be held on Thursday, July 2, from 6-8 pm. The family would like to thank the Oklahoma State University Medical Center and Hammons Heart Institute.
