Mary Tholley

She went by many titles: mama Mary, Auntie Mary, sissy Mary; however one felt comfortable to call her.
Soft spoken with intense and undivided attentiveness she impacted so many lives who spent time in Yonibana from around the globe: Missionaries, Volunteers, Contractors, Public Servants from Germany, the United States of America, Canada, Europe, Asia and other parts of Africa. She only needed to interact with you and her warmth and radiance consumes you. She personified authentic kindness and hospitality in the true sense of the word. Aunt Mary, as the children of the Pletschs - first missionaries to Yonibana fondly called her, had a special place in their lives, as the one who taught their mother - MaPletsch how to cook JOLLOF RICE. The special food served in Sierra Leone on special occasions like Christmas. A tradition she took along to Canada onto her passing about seven years ago. To God be the glory. Blessings, Momodu & Saffie.

Rest well, Aunty Mary Tholly. You will always be in my heart. I remember you vividly when I was a child. You cured my aching ear. You were a great woman. You were a role model, beautiful both in and out. May your soul rest in peace, Ma. From Fatmatta. Mammy Laura Kamara's daughter.

Joint Eulogy

Davephine:
We've grown up with our two (2) grandmas. I had them both as alternative roomies all my life.

The past month, I haven't really come to terms with Grandma Tholley's death. It still feels like she went on a journey and will be back.

As a kid, Grandma would wake me up every morning to pray. Psalms were her favourite. At times I'll tell her, grandma r wan sleep but she'll not let me.

Bedtime stories with her were my favourite. One of her favourite stories to tell was about a bra fox that played dead. “If you shake, r wap”.

Or when we do trips for her regular eye checkup

When I switched rooms, I'll go greet her. When I didn't she'll come to my room and ask, Ayesatta, you nr d go school or work?

Daverose:
Christmas was our favourite bonding time. We loved sitting in the living room, quietly listening to Boney M together, she would always point out that they were from her era and relive stories of her youth.
When vacation was over, grandma would always call me to her room to give me some pocket money.

Davephine:
Grandma was creative. Skilled in different types of arts and craft.
She taught me how to crotchet.

Daverose:
She also TRIED to teach me how to crochet. But for me it did not work out.

However, Grandma taught me how to count with groundnut peels, which worked out very well.

I believe that all her children, grandkids, in various forms got their creative artsy side from her.

Grandma was regal. She prioritised elegance and good hygiene. To this day, I can vividly hear *sit down like a lady* when I have bad posture.

Davephine:
*wae you d eat, nr nak nak the plate*.

Grandma had a strong will. I'll joke with my friends that I am strong willed because of my grandmas. We'll sqabble sometimes especially when she stays up late to do things, or when I'll go help her pack her room. When I'll go say sorry after, she'll just say bo lef me.

Growing up with two grandmas in the house meant that sometimes after school or work, there's a small squabble to settle. Alman d lay e compin e complain. You have to listen and you dare not take sides. The next day they're seated gisting like two best friends.
Love really does cover a multitude of sins.

Daverose:
Grandma and I would spend time in the living room talking about different topics for hours. Thinking back, our conversations have helped me relate with different people.
When I'll bring her gifts, she'll be so happy and say “tenki tenki ohh me pekin”.

Grandma was soft spoken. She chose her words carefully and slowly. Sometimes too slowly, when it is her turn to pray during evening devotions.

When she travelled, she kept that tradition and joined us during our family evening prayers. Mummy had done a rooster for whom to read and pray daily and on Monday the 7th, a few days before she died, she prayed for us.

Davephine:
Grandma had a long list of questions for any of my friends that came home. And if possible she tell you about where you come from. She spoke different languages, travelled a lot within Africa. Had so many stories about her travels.

Daverose:
Grandma was a woman of the world, and the kitchen was a passport to the flavors she loved. My most cherished recipe was a coconut and banana stew. Though I have not uncovered the exact recipe, I am determined to uncover it, it's memory lingers as a reminder of her love and creativity. I've recently found one of her cherished recipe books she owned. It must have been rare and special for her to find it in her time. Holding it in my hands, I can only imagine the care and curiosity she put into learning and recreating new flavours. Each page feels like a clue, and hopefully I'll uncover the recipe that bring me back to that special dish.

Davephine:
We had candid conversations. Last year, I called Grandma and we had a long conversation about unforgiveness and the importance of forgiving those who have hurt us. And repentance. And we prayed. When I called grandma on her birthday this year, she was so lively. “Wae me gift”, she said. Before she left I took some of her dresses and told her, “grandma you clos dm fit me oh”. “Bo lef me”, she said. Her favourite phrase to say when she's pleased about something but doesn't want to show it.

Grandma loved her family. I'll tease daddy about being a mummy's boy. She'll make him coffee, mixed with cinnamon spice from scratch.

Grandma's words during her last devotion with us were “R glady say ouna dae with God”.

She was a beloved and devoted sister, mother, mother-in-law, sister-in-law, aunt, grandmother, great grandmother, and friend.

Through all the ups and downs, sweet moments and squabbles, we love you grandma.

Thank you so much to all our family members and friends for your love and support in making it possible for us to give Grandma a befitting funeral.

Deepest condolences to the family. 'Mamie Tholey' knew my dad, the late Bishop T.K. Davies, and took a special liking to me, whenever I attended Bishop Baughman to fulfil a task as a Clergyman. She always gave words of encouragement after service. I am at the funeral Service to pay my own last respects.
May she rest in peace, and rise in glory, on that great day.

Mama Tholley was an iconic woman who left a legacy of love, friendship and devotion to God and her work.
May her soul rest in peace

Aunty Mary,mummy's more appropriate because this is the role you played best. Thank you for the love you gave me. You are an amazing woman, kind,gentle,loving patient and the list will go on forever. I will miss you so much. Take your gentle rest..love you.

Sisi Mary you are gone but memories will linger on. You were a guardian and a mother to a lot of us that grew up in Yonibana.
May the Good Lord grant your Soul a peaceful eternal rest.

You really care and love us even though we lived apart you were truly an aunt with love, you were the only aunt I knew from my dad's family and I'll always cherish all what you told me when u called. ♥️ Forever and please say hi to my dad.

Dear Isata and David:

Thank you for letting us borrow your dear Mother. For so many generations of Yonians, Mrs. Mary Tholley, aka Sisi Mary, was our Mother.

I am very thankful God put her in the path of my life, and even more that he did so very early on.

I receive compliments on my sound educational fundamentals everywhere I go. I tell them that there were many sculptors, and then let them know Teacher Mary Tholley was the earliest and finest.

I still thank God for how blessed I was to have her in the preschool Class One B, and first year Class One A, from which I know I emerged with enduring tools in my educational, and even life, journeys.

To my mind, she and her husband, your dear Father, Teacher and Pastor JF Tholley, were the first family of education in Yoni. They were determined to have all the children of Yoni educated and, even more, that they each receive the highest quality possible.

One of the enduring stories we tell in my generation of Yonians is that of Sisi Mary and Orlando. Orlando was Sisi Mary’s neighbor. He, like too big a percentage of the children in my generation, started school a bit later, a systemic problem in the quest to bring us ‘modern’ education.

Orlando probably had to help support the family because his being in school took away his labor somewhere. Of course, there is also a bit of the rascality that boys of his age are wont to have, especially one who started school so late.

Well, Orlando would sometimes start out to school in the morning, but end up at the store of Baydoun, the local Lebanese merchant. At Baydoun’s, he could help to load and offload merchandize, and get paid.

Sisi Mary had a special squad of older pupils. Their job was to go and find Orlando, and others like him who, who were absent from School.

The thing is, Sisi Mary almost always knew those who were to be absent for reasons that were justifiable. She had a great network with all parents and guardians, such that they would send her messages on who would be absent for a good reason.

When the squad inevitably found Orlando and brought him to school, Sisi Mary would mete out punishment. But love would never be far from punishment.

One of the languages of love, mind you, was food. So sometimes Orlando would be in the middle of serving his punishment with something to eat.

In time, she had Orlando come to her house to carry materials or other artifacts she needed for school, to reduce the likelihood of him straying away from school.

I was so blessed. Sisi Mary at school was the embodiment of a principle I learned from my Grandmothers, my Mother, my Father and my Uncle who raised me: love did not eschew discipline.

I was showered a ton of love, but I was expected to behave in manner worthy of my family and community. Manners maketh man, my late Mother used to say. Sisi Mary asked and required that of us, his children, always wrapped in tons and tons of love.

I am going to make the bold claim that I was one of her favorite pupils. I feel blessed that I had a lifetime of connection with her. I was in South Africa when we reconnected after a very long time. One thing that I’ll never forget is that she was always calling to know how I was doing.

When foreign nationals were in danger in South Africa, she called me two or three times a week to make sure I was safe from any violence.

In retrospect, I feel like it was my departed Mother and Grandmothers working with the one remaining to make sure that their son is safe.
Her calls, and her voice, increased my sense of safety; and they also helped me to realize who I am as a man of Yoni, in a land far, far from Yoni.

I have to of course touch on her legendary memory. She never forgot anyone. During our conversations, when I would mention classmates, or when she’d ask about them, she’d go on to tell their story in her hands, and talk about their parents or guardians, all in details that belied their occurrence three decades ago.

It was more than a genetic gift though, this legendary memory: it reflected her ability to connect with people at the deepest level possible.

There is so much more that I can say. But I think you get that she was a special person in my life. Or even more, like Isata responded to me recently, that she was ‘a force of nature’.

So let me just say goodbye. My heart is heavy, my heart is light.

It is heavy because a small part of me wished for more time. Even though our chats were intermitted near the end here, the comfort of her voice grounded me and brought me back to a sense of who I am. I’ll miss that.

My heart is light because her life left a legacy of love in me, and in many in generations of Yonians that includes my parents.

Go well, our Teacher.

Go well our Mother.

When you get there, greet all of my people, our people. Tell them I am not quite ready yet, but that I look forward to the eternity of
Yoni heaven with all of you.

I thank grandma for all what she has done for me. If I become what I am today is because of her. She taught how to be a man on my own. Thank you grandma. May her soul rest in peace.

Thank you for being there for all of us at Bishop Baughman Church grandma Tholley. May your kind and gentle soul rest in paradise. Sending all our love and deepest condolences to the entire family.

You will always be remembered mama Tholley, Sleep on and take your rest, thank you for serving humanity.

On behalf of my family and Intercessors for Sierra Leone , I ecpress heartfelt condolences to You Aunty Isata and Uncle David , your families and all as we thank God for the call to glory of our beloved mother Mama Mary.
My tribute.


All Glory to God Almighty for the blessed memory of a dearly beloved mother in the Lord.

Rev. J F Tholley and Mama Mary' s home in Yonibana was the first place I encountered the routine of morning devotion by Christians.
That was in 1976 when I was in class 7 at the U M C primary schooll. One scripture that was sown in my heatt from those devotions was Romans 8 .31 . If God be for Us who can be against us. Roman 8 has been a covenant word in my life and I salute the home of the Tholley Family and Mama Mary for the foundation of the word and prayet I received from her.She was mybest and great Sunday school teacher at the U M C Church in Yonibana . I give my tribute with Singing the words of the two hymns.
1. Let us with a gladsome mind PRAISE the Lorf for He is Kind. FOR HIS MERCIES AY ENDURE, EVER FAITHFUL , EVER SURE. This hymn has 24 stanzas and I sing them to celebrate the memory of Mama Mary in 2024.
2. I have also been singing the Hymn God is Love, Come let us a unite to sing that God is love.
God bless the entire Tholley family for the legacy of CHRIST that will last till eternity in the lives of so many souls touched.
When Mama visied my home in Freetown in 2015/16 she still prayed for me and my children. She was a global beacon of faith, a woman of prayer, have the precious heart of a godly mother who will never give up on her Children. God bless you generations with the rivers of His love and may they continue in the unflinching service of the Lord till eternity.
Thank you. From Emma R Kamara nee Caulker on behalf of Anthony Kamara family.

Continue to rest in peace Mrs Tholley 🙏 We love u but God loves u most 🥺💐💐

Aunty Mary was one of my late dad's Sister (Late Lt Col Wilfred Yamba Kanu). As a child I remembered her as a disciplinarian but has a beautiful smile. When she came to see my dad, all I saw was her radiant beauty walking down the hill to her house. I was fortunate to speak to her this Summer at her daughter Ayesatta’s house in the US and all she spoke about was how she missed her brother. Aunty had touched so many lives as all being testifying. May she rest in peace and may light perpetual shines upon her precious soul 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾❤️

Loved by ALL! I extended my sincere condolences for the loss of Ms. Mary Tholley. For you have earned your wings. RIP.

To say that Mary left a wonderful and lasting impression on anyone who met her would be an understatement. I first met Mary in Yonibana in 1971 and was thrilled to follow her artistry and her commitment to women's issues over 50 years. Mary kept her religious faith and her belief in the goodness of people through many, many tough years, and set an excellent example for all of us. When someone survives to the age she reached, we often say "they lived a good life". No, Mary lived a GREAT life. Rest in the peace you rightly deserve my dear.

Sending our sincere condolences 💐 to the bereaved family. May God grant her perpetual rest🙏🏻🙏🏻🥹🥹

We love you so much Grama, but GOD loves you most,gone but never be forgotten, continue to rest in thy bossom of our Lord 🕊️😭♥️

Mama , may your gentle soul continue to rest in peace and may light perpetual shine on you, you will forever be missed, good night good night till we meet one day where we will part no more ,😭😭😭😭🙏🏿

[11/10, 08:01] M.R . Koroma: Good morning, lng. David Tholley
I have just read the sad news which you posted at 7: 20 pm yesterday, of the passing on to the internity of your mother, the late Auntie Mrs. Mary Tholley.
I personally recall the campaign she launched and executed in the 70s in Yonibana township for girls to be sent to school. The late Auntie Mary was a heroine and a role model for our sisters. The glaring incident to me was Auntie's bravery when she fought with my uncle Pa Amadu Bangura, commonly known as *Night Guide* and rescued my sister Abie Koroma, from plans made for her to be wedded at age 12. This was soon after the death of our father, the late Pa Amidu Koroma. Abie Koroma is a nurse today. We give thanks to the Lord for the life of Auntie Mary Tholley.
May her soul rest in perfect peace, RiP.
Respectfully posted;
M R Koroma

You truly were a special, special woman! You may have passed on, but your memories would always live on within us. Thank you for your sacrifices, your care and concern, your love and everything that you have done for me. Wherever you are, I know you are in a much better place. May your beautiful soul rest in peace!!!

Thanks for all the goodies. You were a mother to all. My deepest sympathy to all especially Makuta❤️

A Tribute to Mary Tholley.
A shining star has left our midst, but her radiant light will forever shine in our hearts. She was a remarkable woman, a devoted mother, a loving wife, and a guiding light to generations, she has embarked on her eternal journey.
With grace and strength, Mary navigated life's joys and challenges, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew her. She showed:
- Unwavering love and support for families and friends
- Wisdom and guidance that inspired growth and resilience
- Selflessness, kindness, and compassion that touched countless lives
- Unshakeable faith and devotion to her community
May your cherished memories, love, and lessons continue to inspire us.
May your legacy be a beacon of hope and strength.
Rest in peace, dear Mary. Your love and light will never fade.

Mother Mary! It was with great pleasure and blessings to have had you in my life for two years! I’m going to miss the stories you shared with me, and the many languages you taught me! You were a wonderful and beautiful lady of grace, charm, kindness, dignity, I can go on and on! Your work here will always be appreciated and remembered, job well done! Now that you’ve gained your wings Rest In Peace Our Beloved and Beautiful African Queen!❤️🌹🙏🏾

Aunty Mary, as fondly known in the family, will always be remembered for her genuine love and care she lavished on us.
May her soul rest in perfect peace.

Sending my deepest condolences to her family and friends. You are now present with our father 🙏🏽🙏🏽

Sissy Mary, commonly called by her cousins was a woman of discipline, virtue, honesty and loves all young or old. Sissy Mary would always reach out to meet the needs of others. A God fearing lady who dedicated her life to church, showing compassionate care for the needy. We miss you Sissy Mary but God wants you home. Sleep and take a rest.

Our thoughts and prayers goes to the entire family of mam Mary may are soul rest in peace

We have never had a wonderful, ever ready and willing woman in our organization to work with as you. You knew no boundaries, no rough terrain, no hash weather in the line of work. As you get older, your heart was still young. You had a perssion to bring women up from poverty line to self reliance. We are forever grateful to God for making it possible to meet a wonderful, peaceful, beautiful and prayerful woman like you.
Rest from your labour and your reward awaits you in Jesus's Mighty name.

Our beloved mama has been a blessing to us all even though I didn’t meet her, but I heard so many beautiful stories about her. I know the angels are rejoicing at her home going, so we pray that God will comfort you all in Jesus name. May her soul rest in heavenly peace.

Your life was a BLESSING
Your memory a TREASURE
You are LOVED beyond words
MISSED beyond MEASURE...
Our Mother, Adviser, Prayer Partner, and Friend.
Mama Mary Tholley
Rest in Peace and may your memories remain a blessing.

A mother we will forever have. She knew no North, South or East. To her, every Sierra Leone was her country and
every child her child. Her inspirational parenthood will forever live with me. May she be comforted by our God in heaven

Our Community at Brookfields Mourns/Our Moyamba Family Mourns/Our Nation Mourns/Africa Mourns
May GOD bless Mama Aunty Mary

She thought me discipline

Grandma Mary made sacrifices for so many, but I believe the greatest one was for me. She stepped away from her bright career to care for me when I was just a year old. In every way, she was my guiding angel, sent by the good Lord to walk with me in this life. Her unconditional love, selflessness, and support have been my foundation, and I know I wouldn’t be the woman I am today without her and God’s grace.

As I move forward, I am committed to honoring her legacy by following in her footsteps, carrying on her spirit of compassion and strength. Her love will always be my guide.