Andy Toney

Andy Lee Toney, age 56, of Forest City, passed away Sunday, October 4, 2020 at Hospice of the Carolina Foothills.

Andy was born August 17, 1964 in Cleveland County to Dr. Shirley Putman Toney who resides in Forest City and to the late Max Lee Toney. He was a graduate of Chase High School, class of 1982. He worked for Cone Mills, Cliffside, until 2005 when the plant closed and thereafter for Barrday Advanced Material Solutions in Charlotte. Andy was a member of the First Baptist Church of Henrietta and an avid fisherman.

In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by an uncle, W.C. Toney, Jr, an aunt, Gearlean Toney Vickers and a cousin, Tina Toney Flack.

Besides his mother, those left to cherish his memory include a brother, Brian Toney of Forest City, uncle, Dan Toney of Forest City and aunt, Brenda Toney Ennis of Indian Trail, NC and several dear cousins.

Andy’s special mechanical, creative and trouble-shooting skills served him well as Machine Technician at Barrday and as Head Technician, Weave Room, Cone Mills Corporation.  He was expert at operating and maintaining computer automated machinery using Dornier Airjet and Rapier Weaving Machines, and Sulzer Ruti and Nissan Weaving Machines.  He participated in ongoing skill development through special courses and certifications.  Prior to his work with weaving machines, Andy also had experience as an Auto body Technician and as a Carpenter, Roebuck Buildings, Spartanburg, SC.

Andy was an expert fisherman, particularly fishing lakes in North and South Carolina and the Everglades in Florida.  His specialty was bass and striper fishing.  Andy developed his love for fishing at a very young age through his father and grandfather, who was co-owner of Putman’s Fishing Lake, Henrietta.

Andy was personable and helpful and had many friends.  Another trait he probably got from his grandfather’s side of the family was a gift of talking.  He enjoyed talking with others about any subject.  He was a patriot and loved his country and respected God’s creation in the mountains and lakes.  He was a wonderful son, brother and friend.  He loved life and is greatly missed.

A memorial service will be conducted at 4:00 pm on Monday, October 12, 2020 at the First Baptist Church of Henrietta with Reverend James Johnson and Reverend Ricky Baynard officiating. The family will receive friends one prior to the service at the church.

Memorial donations are requested to First Baptist Church of Henrietta, PO Box 256, Henrietta, NC 28076 or to the American Liver Foundation, www.liverfoundation.org