Allison Rose O’Toole, a 28-year-old resident of Durham, North Carolina, tragically died in a car accident on December 15, 2019. This unexpected loss deeply impacted her family, friends, and community. Allison was a bright and compassionate individual dedicated to helping others through her pursuit of a career in mental health counseling.
Allison was a gifted student and avid reader. After graduating from Durham School of the Arts in 2009 with a focus on photography, she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2013. Driven by her passion for helping others, Allison was pursuing a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Wake Forest University at the time of the accident. Her goal was to use her skills and knowledge to make a positive impact on the lives of those struggling with mental health challenges.
Beyond her academic pursuits, Allison had a vibrant personality and enjoyed a variety of interests. She found joy in spending time with loved ones, immersing herself in nature, and relaxing at the beach. Her creative spirit found outlets in writing, crocheting, and photography. Allison’s infectious laughter and warm presence left a lasting impression on everyone she encountered.
A celebration of Allison’s life was held on December 21, 2019, at Holy Infant Catholic Church in Durham, North Carolina. Family and friends gathered to remember her and share stories of her life. In lieu of flowers, the family requested donations to the NC Governor’s School Foundation to support scholarships for students attending the summer program. Allison had attended the Governor’s School summer program for English in 2008, a formative experience that further fueled her passion for learning and personal growth.
Allison is survived by her parents, Kelly (Riecss) and Christopher O’Toole; her sister, Shannon O’Toole; her grandparents, Helen and Michael O’Toole; her partner, Jereme Stewart; her great aunt and uncle, Josephine and John Michael Muchmore; and numerous other relatives and friends. Her memory continues to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. The O’Toole family was assisted by Hall-Wynne Funeral Service. Online condolences can be found at www.hallwynne.com under the obituaries section. The tragic car accident that claimed Allison O’Toole’s life serves as a reminder of the preciousness of life and the importance of cherishing every moment.
