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Edward Trevor
Tolbert
Mar 25, 1970 — Sep 2, 2026
REDONDO BEACH
Edward Trevor Tolbert, lovingly known to everyone simply as Trevor, passed away on September 2, 2026, in Redondo Beach, California, after a long and courageous battle with Multiple Sclerosis.
Born on March 25, 1970, in Los Angeles, California, Trevor was the cherished son of Mayme “Mimi” Brent and Rudolph “Rudy” Tolbert. From an early age, he possessed a remarkable memory, a magnetic personality, and a deep love for trains — passions and traits that would shape his entire life.
Trevor attended Narbonne High School. After graduating, he met his best friend and future wife, Josette. Though he chose not to attend college, Trevor knew from a young age exactly what he wanted to do: become a railroad engineer. He began his railroad career at Union Pacific Railroad, where he became one of the youngest employees ever hired. Through hard work, determination, and grit, he worked his way up and eventually became an engineer at Santa Fe Railroad (later BNSF). He later joined Amtrak, where he continued doing the work he loved.
Trevor had an incredible work ethic — the kind that started early. At just eight years old, he had a paper route in Pittsburgh and spent winter snow days shoveling neighbors’ driveways. He always had a job, always stayed busy, and to this day, we’re still not sure if he loved working… or if he just loved the money.
On November 16, 2001, Trevor married Josette, beginning a life filled with devotion, laughter, and partnership. They would have celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary this year. Together they raised two children, Miles and Madison, who were the pride of his life.
Trevor’s interests were as vibrant as his personality. He adored model trains, a passion he began at age five and continued throughout his life, collecting unique and rare pieces with the enthusiasm of a true connoisseur. He loved mini‑bikes, playing basketball, and spending time with friends, co‑workers, and family. Trevor was famously extroverted — the kind of person who made everyone feel like they were his best friend. His incredible memory was legendary; he could recall exactly what someone wore at a party twenty years earlier, often teasing with a grin: “Do you remember when we had our July 4th party and mom had on her white Budweiser t‑shirt with blue terry cloth shorts?”
Trevor was also known for being exceptionally organized — a self‑proclaimed “neat‑freak” whose love of order was both endearing and iconic. If something was out of place, he noticed instantly, and instead of us loving him for it, we’ll be honest — it drove us crazy. And we wouldn’t change a thing.
Trevor is survived by his devoted wife Josette, his children Miles and Madison, and his beloved granddaughter Kamila. He is also survived by his father Rudolph, his brother Samuel (Vanessa), his sister Kimberly (Michael), his nephews Little Tony and Little Chico, his nieces Erica and Lauren, and numerous cousins, extended family members, and friends who loved him deeply and will miss him dearly.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Mayme “Mimi” Brent, and his brother, Anthony Lumpkin.
Trevor’s legacy is one of joy, loyalty, humor, and heart. He leaves behind a lifetime of stories, laughter, and love — and a community forever grateful for the time they had with him.
A Celebration of Life will be held on October 2, 2026, at 1:30 PM at Church of Our Fathers – Forest Lawn Cypress Memorial, located at 4471 Lincoln Ave., Cypress, CA 90630. Family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and honor Trevor’s extraordinary life.
Closing Scripture
“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 4:7
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