Annie Lois Toraine

Annie Lois Toraine, a cherished soul whose impact imprinted itself upon the hearts of many, made her beautiful exit from this world on February 3, 2025, at the Hock Family Pavilion in Durham, North Carolina. Born on July 4, 1941, in the quaint town of Garland, North Carolina, Annie emanated a natural brilliance that endeared her to all who were fortunate enough to cross her path. 

With a Bachelor's Degree that paved the way for her illustrious career, Annie served as a Job Counselor and Coordinator for Manpower, a vocation that reflected her unwavering dedication to uplifting others. Her passion for guiding individuals toward fulfilling employment was a testament to her caring spirit and her belief in the transformative power of opportunity. She was more than a counselor; she was a beacon of hope for countless souls navigating the often tumultuous waters of the job market. 

Annie's life was further enriched by the love she fostered within her family. She is survived by her beloved sons, Andre Toraine, Hampton Virginia, and Demond Keith Toraine, Raleigh, North Carolina. Deeply cherished, they carry forth her legacy with resilience and determination. The bond she shared with her siblings, Jeraldine Donatien (Jerry), Garland, NC, Jimmy Parker, Garland, NC, Lenda Jackson, Navassa, NC, Shirley Wilson, Chesapeake, VA and Joy Parker, Garland, NC, served as a foundation of familial love and support, uniting them across distances. Annie's grandchildren, Alexis D. Toraine and Madison T. Toraine, both from Hampton, VA, grandson, Rashaun Wilson, and great-granddaughter, Asha Wilson, both of Richmond, VA, were bright lights in her life, and her role as a grandmother filled her heart with unbound joy. The love she held for Zedra Toraine, (grandchildren’s mother), further exemplified her capacity for generosity and kindness. Her family expanded with the warmth of a host of nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, and great-great nieces and nephews creating a rich tapestry of connections that celebrated her nurturing spirit. 

Though Annie now joins her dearly departed husband, Joseph Toraine, and her sibling, Elma R. Cain, in celestial reunion, along with her beloved parents, Harvey J. Parker and Verlene O. Parker, her essence lingers deeply in the lives she touched. Annie's life was a testament to love, compassion, and service, and while she may have transitioned from this earthly plane, the memories she gifted to her family and friends will forever echo through their hearts.

As we bid farewell to a remarkable woman, let us remember Annie Lois Toraine not only for the roles she played and the titles she held but for the boundless love she infused into the world, paving the way for future generations to thrive. 

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 PM, Monday, February 10, 2025, at Smith Chapel Church, 7485 Old Mintz Hwy, Garland, NC. Interment to follow in the church cemetery.  

Services are provided by Carter Funeral Home of Garland, NC. www.carterfh.com