Obituary for Kristen Suzanne Tolman

Kristen Suzanne Tolman, 50, of Olathe, KS, passed away unexpectedly on December 1st, 2023, in her home.

She was born on January 9th, 1973, to Larry and Carolyn (Mahany) Bailey in Parsons, KS.

On July 27th, 1996, she married Steven James Tolman, and they cultivated their life together in a new home in Olathe, KS.

She graduated from Johnson County Community College with an Associate of Arts Degree followed by a Bachelor of Arts degree in Management and Human Relations from MidAmerica Nazarene University.

Kristen was employed as a nanny for many years to many amazing families. The children that she nannied soon became her own as she grew a deeper passion and love in helping them grow. Kristen’s love spoke volumes as it was something larger than this life could ever begin to understand.

There was never a person fonder of music than Kristen. Hardly was there a day that she was not singing a song or humming a tune. Her voice, though angelic, inviting, and bright, often became hidden behind her stage-fright. Nonetheless, to those who were blessed enough to hear it in passing, quickly realized how unique and special her gift was. She brought a sense of safety, security, and bliss in the way she sang throughout her life- music was always her outlet.

Her boys, Alexander Nicholas and Hunter Riley were her life- her reason to keep going. She soaked her boys up, every second of every day as it became evident there was never a moment not captured by her camera. Kristen was a mom fueled behind witnessing her family closest to her happy. From holidays, to birthdays, to sports events and school accomplishments, Kiki was always there. The smallest and most routine of things were never mundane to her as those were the things that brought about the most joy in her heart- her smile conveyed it all.

The world lacks a stronger word than love to describe the way she lived her life. Telling, showing, and expressing her love to her boys, Steven, Alexander, and Hunter, was something that could never truly be put into words. It’s rare to find the kind of love Kristen possessed so beautifully and effortlessly.

This world will forever be changed for the better, because of Kristen Suzanne Tolman. May her unwavering love and motherly passion be carried in those that felt it and spread to everyone who may need it.

Kristen is survived by her loving husband, Steven, her beautiful children Alexander and Hunter, her parents, Larry and Carolyn Bailey, her sister Stacy Long, her nephew and niece Jackson and Skylar. She is also survived by her brother-in-law Frederick Tolman (Maureen), nephews Michael and Robbie, brother-in-law Albert Tolman (Beth), nieces Melissa and Sara and nephew, Matthew.

She was preceded in death by her nephew, Ethan Foster Long.

Memorials are suggested to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.