On February 2, 2008, we lost a treasure when Gregory “Toast” Vinson passed away at his home in Trinity, Texas.  He was a beloved son, uncle, brother, friend and teacher who touched and changed the lives of everyone around him.  His fifth grade students at the Outdoor Education Center in Trinity affectionately referred to him as “Mr. Toast” and hung on his every word.  Despite a near lifelong battle with Type I Diabetes, Addison’s disease, Hypothyroidism and recently Osteoporosis, Toast tenaciously pursued physical activities.  In the summer of 2005, Toast participated in a 4,000 mile coast to coast bicycle ride.  He ran at least sixteen marathons, most recently the January 2008 Houston Marathon, which he used as an opporutnity to raise funds for the Texas Lions Camp.

The Houston Marathon was especially important to Toast, as it let him merge two of his favorite pursuits: exercise and charity.  Toast was devoted to the Texas Lion’s Camp in Kerrville, Texas, where he was a former camper, counselor, staffer and now “Legend.”

A Memorial services was recently held in Toast’s honor at the Outdoor Education Center in Trinity, Texas, where Toast worked.  Now, Texas Lions Camp will have the opportunity to celebrate the life of our friend and benefactor, Toast Vinson, on May 25, 2008. To learn more about the event, please click here.