Kristina M. Toro

Kristina Marie Toro, age 66 of Newport, passed away Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at home with family by her side. Kris struggled for over 14yrs with a rare disease called PSP. Her strength, determination, and will to carry on for her family shined through as she surpassed Dr's life expectancy.

Born August 14, 1959, in River Rouge, MI to the late Barbara (Tittle) Toro, Kris was one of eight children. She married her husband of 50 wonderful years, Joseph Toro, on August 18 1975 in Monroe, Michigan. A True Rags to Riches Love Story evolved as these soulmates beat the odds. They created a beautiful home, a crazy loving family, and a life to be proud of.

Once her kids were all in school, she began working as a home health aid and started night school to get her GED. Her drive and determination led her to continuing her education at the University of Toledo’s School of Nursing to receive her Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) degree. After graduating, she went to work at the Wellspring Lutheran Nursing Home as an LPN for many years before she medically retired due to PSP.

Kris was an amazing cook and loved baking with her grandkids. She could fix a casserole out of whatever she had in the cupboard...and it was good! Texas Sheet Cake, cinnamon toast, and honey banana and peanut butter sandwiches were among the favorites. In her younger years, she was always on the go. She enjoyed shopping and had to look at everything especially at her favorite store, TJ Maxx. She enjoyed traveling up north to the Toro family ranch and also finding new places for the family to experience. She was happy as long as memories were made.

Kris will be remembered as a true fashionista. She loved her fancy sunglasses, beautiful jewelry, potent perfumes, and abundance of clothes! Her favorite accessory was her prissy lil yorkie Priscilla! Most importantly, she enjoyed spending quality time with her family and friends. Kris will be deeply missed and cherished in the hearts of her loved ones.

Beloved wife of Joseph “Butch” Toro. Loving mother of Joseph (Wendy) Toro, Richard (Madison) Toro, Jessica Barton, Kelli (James) Garcia, and Justin “Champ” (Amanda) Toro. Dearest grandmother of 22 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren, with one on the way. Dear sister of Robert (Betty) Clayfield, Ronnie (Melinda) Clayfield, Jean (Keith) Nichols, Bruce (Julie) Johnson, Danny Johnson, Laura (Jim) Wells, and Pat (Regina) Johnson, Step sister Colleen (Dennis) Hebert. Also survived by her best friend of 51 years, Denise Ayers and her friend and caregiver, Joslin Cissney.

Kristina was preceded in death by her parents, Rohland and Barbara Johnson; and four-legged companion, Priscilla.

Family and friends are invited to a visitation on Monday, January 19, 2026, at Rupp Funeral Home from 10 am until the time of service at 4 pm. Burial will follow to Roselawn Memorial Park. Everyone is then invited to a celebration of life dinner at the VFW Post #1138 located at 400 Jones Ave, Monroe, MI, 48161, at 6 pm.

Online condolences may be sent to Www.ruppfuneralhomeinc.com