George Toombs

George Albert Toombs was born August 8, 1960 and ascended into the arms of our heavenly father on May 22, 2026 surrounded by family and friends. He was born of Mary Toombs and Olen Toombs, both there to greet him in heaven as he arrived. He had 8 siblings, Carla (Earve) Aldridge, Barbara (Bob) Davis, Wayne Toombs, Tim (Kim) Toombs, Norma (Earl) Easter, Rose Mary (Kevin) Wallace, Teresa Toombs, and Sally (Andrew) Owens. Wayne, Tim, Bob, Tim, Sally, and Andrew were also at heaven’s gates to greet him. He is survived by the remaining siblings, many nieces and nephews, his best girl Beverly Nicholson or Dusti as we all know her, his boys Dave (Lisa) Roberts and Charles (Mariane) Kelly, as well as many other beloved friends. A celebration of life will be held on August 8, 2026 at 11:00 am at Fowler Sullivan with family arriving at 10. A family service will follow.

George was truly one of the kindest and gentlest people. He often sacrificed his own well being to be charitable towards others. He lived in a small house, but it was filled with his treasures. That little house was always like walking into a castle. He had marble tables and statues, an authentic persian rug, and several authenticated museum quality paintings. How he got it all to fit in there, the world may never know. He loved all things historical and antique. There were times when you could go visit and could barely get through the door due to his latest finds. He was known for his ability to spot a true historical art piece. He could restore damaged art and then would sell to other collectors or museums all over the country. His knack for finding treasures was just uncanny! You could take him to the most remote thrift stores or flea markets and he would find the one thing of impeccable value. Most people would just see junk, but George always knew what he had found. Often times, this was more than would fit in the trunk of a car. Everytime George found some treasure, he would get so tickled, but never let the seller know exactly what he held. When you got back to the car, he would rub his hands together and smile from ear to ear to tell you exactly what he found. You would then be subjected to learn the complete history of the art and artist or the value of the item, often all of the above. These items ranged from a huge oil painting to a tiny lithograph. It really didn’t matter what it was, he always knew the value and history of the item. He often spoke in different accents just to tell the stories of his latest finds too and how he managed to obtain the item for just pennies. George said he had champagne taste and a beer pocket book.

George was a lifelong bachelor but he loved his boys fiercely. He raised them to be his own sons, even though he was not biologically their father. George never would have said any different, and sure didn’t tolerate anyone else saying otherwise either. George did everything in his power to make sure they had everything they needed. He enjoyed spending time with them and helping with his grandkids too.

George was considered “the voice of Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center”, known previously as Doctor’s Hospital. He was the PBX operator there for many years. He started his career with Doctor’s Hospital as an orderly, as a teenager. Over the years, he made some of his dearest friends and confidants. We have heard numerous stories of his kindness and dedication at work. People say he was the one who knew who to call in any scenario. It was often said that if you didn’t know who to call, “call George, he will know!” That applied for personal needs too. He had such connections and so many friends in all fields that he always knew someone who could help you.

George used the library often for his research, including family genealogy. He had traced family lineage back to the 1400s, perhaps even earlier.

George loved a good movie. I am pretty sure he kept Hastings in business as long as they were in Poplar Bluff. He often rented movies that he called “movies to sleep to” as he would put them on to help him fall asleep. These were classic movies that I am sure he rented and had seen several times.

He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered. Until we meet again.