Paulita Byrel Mclain-Toby

In Loving Memory of Paulita Byrel, McClain Toby is affectionately known as ‘Pepa’, Grandbush, Aunty Grandbush, Mammie, Becku

Sunrise: January 25, 1947 – Sunset: July 19, 2025

With deep sorrow and boundless gratitude for a life beautifully lived, we the announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, aunt, sister, and friend — Paulita Byrel, McClain Toby affectionately known as ‘Pepa’ Grandbush, Aunty Grandbush, Mammie, Becku, who departed this world peacefully on July 19, 2025 at the Villas at The Park Nursing Home in St. Louis Park, Minnesota.

Born in Monrovia, Liberia, Mammie - Paulita Byrel, McClain Toby, was the heart and soul of our family. A mother for all, she nurtured not just her own children, but anyone who came under her care. A dear mother, grandmother, great grandmother, aunt, sister, niece, and widow, she wore many titles with grace, humility, and strength. Her presence brought warmth, her words brought peace, and her sacrifices were the quiet threads that held generations together.

She was a woman of gentle spirit and unwavering kindness — never one to raise her voice, but always quick to offer a word of encouragement, a comforting hand, or a hot meal to anyone in need. Her generosity knew no bounds; even in her own hardship, she gave from her heart without hesitation. Her patience was a wellspring from which many drank, and her love—steadfast, forgiving, and abundant—was a gift that shaped lives.

To be in her presence was to feel seen, valued, and deeply cared for. She was the embodiment of grace and dignity, the quiet strength behind many successes, and a guiding light of encouragement in times of confusion or despair. Her faith in God was the cornerstone of her life, and through her words and deeds, she reminded us daily of the power of compassion and humility.

As we mourn her passing, we also choose to celebrate the legacy she leaves behind—a legacy not of wealth or status, but of love, service, and selflessness. She taught us the true meaning of family and community, and how to live a life rooted in love and kindness.

Paulita McClain Toby is survived by her beloved brothers, Sar McClain, Doughba C.C Caranda III, sisters - Dr. Danielette Nelson of UK, Vera McClain Ricks – Norway, Rachael Nelson – Liberia, her children, Alfred Jude Toby, Joyce Toby Mensah, Blessing Yarlo Darmo Toby, Glenn & Shirley Toby, grandchildren, Elizabeth Seplah, Mrs. Naomi Fatu Toby Obilade, Mrs. Paulifred Walker, Vanessa Angie Toby, Cherubim Cherish Toby, Glenn Mensah, Joseph Mensah, Olusegun (Shegun) Olaoye, great grandchildren, close cousins, Uncles, nieces, nephews and a hosts of other relatives

Mammie-Paulita Byrel, McClain Toby will be immensely missed by her children, grandchildren, extended family, and the countless lives she touched. Though our hearts are heavy, we are comforted by the memories, lessons, and love she leaves with us. 

A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered. The family invites all friends, loved ones, and well-wishers to join us in a celebration of her life:

Funeral and Celebration of Life Details:

Date: August 9, 2025

Venue: Ebenezer Community Church

Address: 9200 West Broadway, Brooklyn Park, MN 55455

Telephone: 763 561 2100

Visitation:

Saturday, August 9, 2025

9:00 am -11:00 am

Funeral Service:

Saturday, August 9, 2025

11:00 AM – 12:30 PM

Burial:

Glen Haven Memorial Garden

5125 West Broadway

Crystal, MN 55429

763 533 8643

All are welcome to join in honoring Paulita, Grandbush’s remarkable life and her enduring impact on the communities she served. May her soul rest in eternal peace.

Further information:

Mr. Glenn Toby - (651) 366 – 8332

Mrs. Shirley Toby - (763) 656 – 7264

Mrs. Paulifred Walker - (612) 479 2738

Yeda Joyce Mensah - 011-231-886951004

Alfred Jude Toby - 011-231-886951004

Glenn Mensah - 011-231-886951004

OTHER INFORMATION:

Airport:

MSP AIRPORTS - Minneapolis- St. Paul - Bloomington

They are connected but one is the larger of the two and takes the larger flights while the other takes smaller flights.

TERMINAL 1- Minneapolis Airport (MSP) - LINDBERGH

https://www.minneapolis-airport.com/terminal-1.php

TERMINAL 2 -Minneapolis Airport (MSP) - HUMPHREY

https://www.minneapolis-airport.com/terminal-2.php

https://www.mspairport.com/airport/terminal-information

Hotels:

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Minneapolis – West End

6051 Golden Hills Drive Minneapolis, Minnesota 55416 United States

RAMADA by Wyndham

6300 Wayzata Boulevard, Golden Valley MN 55416 / Tel: 763 575 8501

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel- Minneapolis- Park Place

1500 Park Pl Blvd, Minneapolis, MN 55416 / Tel: 9525428600

Hampton Inn Brooklyn Park

9470 West Broadway, Brooklyn Park, MN 55445 (763) 567-7990

Cambria Hotel Minneapolis Maple Grove

9655 Grove Cir N, Maple Grove, MN 55369 (952) 225-2685

SpringHill Suites Minneapolis Maple Grove/Arbor Lakes

11675 Arbor Lakes Pkwy N, Maple Grove, MN 55369 (763) 275-9631

Holiday Inn & Suites Maple Grove NW Mpls-Arbor Lks by IHG

11801 Fountains Way N, Maple Grove, MN 55369 (763) 425-3800

Further information:

Mr. Glenn Toby - (651) 366 – 8332

Mrs. Shirley Toby - (763) 656 – 7264

Mrs. Paulifred Walker - (612) 479 2738

Yeda Joyce Mensah - 011-231-886951004

Alfred Jude Toby - 011-231-886951004

Glenn Mensah - 011-231-88695100