Ralph Douglas Toole, a devoted husband, respected farmer, longtime Sunday School teacher, and dedicated member of the First Baptist Church of Chipley, passed away peacefully at his home on April 14, 2026. Born on December 27, 1942, in Jackson County, Florida, Mr. Toole’s life was marked by commitment to family, faith, and his community. 

Ralph married Freda Owen on June 21, 1964, beginning a partnership that endured for 61 years. Together, they made their home on Piney Grove Road, where Ralph pursued his passion for agriculture. For 39 years, he was a successful farmer, notably initiating the production of green boiling peanuts. This endeavor flourished under his guidance and continues to thrive as part of K&L Farms, serving local grocery stores, produce markets, and individual customers throughout the region. 

A man of faith, Ralph served as a Gideon for 37 years, faithfully distributing scriptures and lending spiritual support in his community. His dedication extended over five decades as a Sunday School teacher, nurturing generations. 

Ralph was the beloved son of Pruitt A. Toole and Eunice E. Smith Toole, both deceased, and brother to Eugene Toole, Jack Toole, and Becky Wright, who have also preceded him in death. His legacy is carried forward by his wife, Freda Toole; their children, Steve Toole and his wife Melody, and Rachel Bruner and her husband Kenneth; as well as their grandchildren Kaylee Bruner and her husband Charles, Tori Vuick and her husband Clay, Lindsey Nobles and her husband Trenton, Nathan Crawford and his wife Shelby, Daniel Bruner, and Jeremiah Toole. He was a devoted great-grandfather to Beau, Wesley, Robert, Taitym, Sophia, Walker, Lilly, Weston, Mallory, Colby, and Casey. Ralph is also survived by his siblings, Peggy Stillwell and husband Bob, Pat Toole and wife Nancy, Bennie Toole and wife Barbara and a host of nieces, nephews and friends. 

The family expresses profound gratitude to the VITAS Healthcare Team—Angela Klink, Bonnie Searles, Richie Richardson, Lana Hazelton, Riley Henderson, Dr. Steven Spence, Jessica Johnson, and April Champion—for their compassionate and attentive care during Ralph’s final days. 

Visitation will be held on April 17, 2026, from 10:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. at the First Baptist Church of Chipley, located at 1300 South Boulevard, Chipley, FL 32428. The Funeral Service will begin at 11:00 A.M. with Dr. Mike Orr and Thomas Porter officiating. Interment will follow at Piney Grove Cemetery in Chipley with Reverend Clinton Howell officiating the Graveside. 

Ralph Toole’s life was one of enduring devotion—to his work, faith, and most importantly, his family. His contributions to agriculture and his spiritual guidance have left an indelible mark on the community he cherished. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.

In Lieu of Flowers the family has requested that donations be made to the Gideon's International or First Baptist Church of Chipley.