Conroe Honors Orbra Toliver, The Great Carpenter

Conroe, TX – The community of Conroe is preparing to gather on Saturday, August 3rd, to pay tribute to a true local legend, Orbra Toliver, whose remarkable life and legacy as “The Great Carpenter” profoundly shaped the physical and spiritual landscape of Montgomery County. A public celebration of life event is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the spacious Lone Star Convention & Expo Center, located at 9055 Airport Rd. The event is free and open to all who wish to honor a man whose craftsmanship and unwavering commitment to his community left an indelible mark.

Mr. Toliver, who passed away on June 19th at the impressive age of 92, dedicated an astonishing 70 years to the carpentry trade. Born right here in Montgomery County in 1932, his career spanned generations, contributing to the construction and renovation of countless significant structures across Conroe and its surrounding areas. From the foundational elements of St. Paul Baptist Church to vital additions at the Conroe High School gym, Toliver’s skilled hands were instrumental. His legacy also includes the original Toliver Chapel, which began as a family church and has since evolved into a cherished historic landmark, symbolizing not just his building prowess but also deep community roots.

Beyond his prodigious carpentry, Orbra Toliver was a bedrock of faith and community service. He served as a devoted deacon at St. Paul Baptist Church for six decades, providing spiritual guidance and active leadership. His involvement extended to the Toliver Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, where he remained a vital presence. “Brother Toliver wasn’t just building structures; he was building community, faith, and a future for all of us,” commented Reverend Marcus Jones of St. Paul Baptist Church. “His dedication to the church and the values he lived by were an inspiration to everyone who knew him. He truly built things to last, both physically and spiritually.”

The Toliver family’s roots in Montgomery County run exceptionally deep, tracing back to Orbra’s grandfather, John Toliver. A freed slave, John Toliver overcame immense challenges to acquire over 200 acres of land in the post-Civil War era, a testament to resilience and determination that profoundly influenced subsequent generations. Orbra Toliver carried forward this powerful legacy of self-sufficiency and community building. “My grandfather always taught us the value of hard work, integrity, and giving back,” shared Evelyn Toliver-Smith, Orbra’s eldest daughter. “He was incredibly proud of his family’s history and felt a deep responsibility to contribute to the place his ancestors called home. He instilled that sense of pride and duty in all of us.”

Orbra Toliver’s extensive contributions did not go unrecognized by the city he helped build. In 2020, the City of Conroe formally honored him with a proclamation, declaring “Orbra Toliver Day” and commending his seven decades of craftsmanship and community service. Mayor Jody Czajkoski, reflecting on Toliver’s impact, stated, “Mr. Toliver was more than a carpenter; he was an architect of our community’s character. Every building he touched, every life he inspired, adds to the rich tapestry of Conroe. His commitment to excellence and his unwavering spirit will continue to inspire us for generations to come.”

The upcoming celebration on August 3rd is designed as a joyful remembrance of a life exceptionally well-lived. Attendees are invited to share stories, view photographic tributes, and reflect on the profound impact Orbra Toliver had on Montgomery County. Light refreshments will be served, and the atmosphere will be one of community, gratitude, and shared memory. The Lone Star Convention & Expo Center provides ample space for what is expected to be a significant gathering of family, friends, colleagues, and community members from across the county and beyond.

Orbra Toliver leaves behind his beloved wife of 70 years, Doris Toliver, a steadfast partner through his long and impactful journey. His large and loving family includes a multitude of children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and even great-great-grandchildren, all of whom carry forward his legacy of integrity and dedication. The celebration of life offers a poignant opportunity for the community to come together, honor a true pioneer, and ensure that the memory of “The Great Carpenter” continues to inspire. For further information about the event, please visit ConroeCityNews.com or contact the Toliver Family Committee at ToliverLegacy@email.com.