Twila Toth

Twila (Stone) Toth

May 5, 1939 – September 12, 2009

Twila is in the home of the Lord. Loving her always are her sisters, Cathy Smith and Pamela Jacobs; brothers-in-law, Jesse Smith and Tom Jacobs; niece and family, Laurie and Jim Beal and Molly, Jesse, Mason and DJ; nephew and family, Aaron and Jodi Smith and Phaedra, Tristan and Dagny; stepsons and family, Todd and Alicia Toth, and Scott and Alice Toth and Shad; oldest and dearest friend Beverly Cox; close friends Gerald and Janet Keller; many other friends; and thousands of former students.

Twila was an inspiration to her family, friends, students and community. To her family, she gave unconditional love, total support, and undivided attention. She was strong, nurturing, forgiving, and cared deeply for people and animals. She was joyful and shared her joy with others. Twila was an extraordinary sister who led the family with heart.

Serving 35 years as English teacher and many years as Chair of the English Department at Wadsworth High, Twila was loved by her students and colleagues. For a majority of the students who had her, Twila was their favorite teacher. She was honored to be named National Honor Society Teacher of the Year. She made literature and language come alive. Parents would often tell her she made a difference in their child’s life. Many students remain in touch with her today, thanking her for the gift of learning she gave them. Her colleagues, too, admired her passion and talent for teaching. In 2008, they bestowed upon her the first Teacher Emeritus Award.

Words can’t be written about Twila without speaking of her passion for reading. She loved to read and she could read very fast, so she has probably read more books than anyone anywhere. She so appreciated the program at the Wadsworth Public Library, who would cheerily deliver stacks of books to her door.

Twila was born in West Virginia, and the mountains and hollers held special meaning to her throughout her life. She also loved to travel elsewhere and particularly loved the New England and California coasts and the national parks in the west. At home in Ohio, she enjoyed going to Lake Erie, Amish country, and just for a drive through the countryside.

Twila’s faith was a cornerstone of her life. She walked with God and lived the values of hope, love and charity in everything she did. Now, God has called her home. With a strong, healthy body, she is doing cartwheels in heaven (thanks to Mason for this perfect vision of TT).

A Celebration of Twila’s life will be held at Freshwater Community Church (formerly CMA), 185 Humboldt Ave., Tuesday, September 15th, 7:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Wadsworth Public Library and Twila would love it if everyone would read a book!