Colleen Tokash 1927-2026

Born in Warren on Nov. 23, 1927, Colleen was raised in Midland, Pa., by her parents, Alfred “Jessie” Lefebvre and Antoinette “Twin” Lefebvre. From an early age, she learned the values of faith, hard work, perseverance and generosity — qualities that would guide her throughout her life.

Colleen was first married to Jonathan Keefer Sr., with whom she had two children, Daniece and Jonathan. They later divorced. She subsequently married Joseph Perry, with whom she made her home in Youngstown until his passing in 1988. She later married Frank Tokash in 1996, and they shared many happy years together until his passing in 2011.

She was preceded in death by her former husband, Jonathan Keefer Sr., father of her children Daniece and Jonathan; her husbands, Joseph Perry and Frank Tokash; her son, Jonathan Keefer Jr.; her daughter, Paulette Savon; and her cousin, Albert Romain.

She is survived by her daughter, Daniece (Chuck) Moore of Cortland; Frank’s children, Frank (Cynthia) Tokash of Hudson, Anna (Greg) Johnson of Texas and Canice Tokash of Niles; along with her beloved grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family members and many dear friends.

Family was at the center of Colleen’s life. She celebrated the accomplishments of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, prayed for them faithfully, and loved each one deeply. Though distance separated her from some family members, they were never far from her heart. Her home was often filled with warmth, laughter and a welcoming spirit that made everyone feel at home.

Colleen’s greatest gifts were her loving heart, generous spirit and extraordinary talent with a needle and thread. Taught to sew by her beloved Aunt Poe, she made her first wedding gown for a friend at just 17 years old. During World War II, when resources were scarce, she transformed worn garments into beautiful new outfits, discovering both a talent and a passion that would shape the rest of her life.

From a young age, Colleen dreamed of owning her own dress shop. Through determination, hard work and a gift that was largely self-taught, she turned that dream into reality. What began as sewing and alterations from her home blossomed into a successful business that served generations of families throughout the Youngstown area. She became especially known for her work with wedding gowns, finding great joy in helping brides look and feel beautiful on one of the most important days of their lives. To Colleen, every stitch was an opportunity to serve others and share the talents God had given her.

She generously taught sewing lessons to others and was always willing to help someone in need

Even after retiring at age 90 and moving to Cortland, former customers continued to call her for alterations and advice, a testament not only to her remarkable skill but also to the lasting friendships she built over the years.

Beyond sewing, Colleen enjoyed roller skating in her younger years and later found joy on the ballroom dance floor.

A woman of deep and abiding faith, Colleen loved God and her church family. Her faith was the foundation of her life and inspired her commitment to helping others. She believed in treating everyone with kindness and generosity, often putting the needs of others before her own. What she did for one person, she did for all.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, after the heartbreaking loss of her son and being unable to travel to Oregon, Colleen found comfort and purpose in serving others. She devoted countless hours to sewing and donated more than 1,000 masks to individuals and organizations in need. It was one more example of how she transformed hardship into compassion and used her gifts to bless those around her.

Colleen’s life was a beautiful example of faith in action. She loved God, cherished her family and dedicated her life to serving others with humility and grace. Whether sewing a wedding gown, teaching a young seamstress, baking gaullets for the holidays, making masks for those in need or praying for her loved ones, she gave generously from her heart.

She leaves behind a legacy of faith, kindness, perseverance and unconditional love. Her family will forever remember her gentle spirit, selfless heart, unwavering devotion to God and the countless lives she touched through her generosity and care.

Well done, good and faithful servant.

Colleen’s family would like to thank Buckeye Hospice, Lisa of Buckeye Hospice and The Suites at Continuing Healthcare of Niles Assisted Living for their care.

A celebration of Colleen’s life will be 11 a.m. Monday, June 22, 2026, at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Cortland. Family and friends may visit one hour prior to services.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that acts of kindness be performed in her memory, honoring the servant-hearted life she lived so beautifully, and memorial contributions can be donated to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Family and friends may send their heartfelt condolences by visiting www.lanefuneralhomes.com

(special notice)