Bernice Gwen Toler

Bernice Gwen Toler, lovingly known as Gwen to all who knew her, of Bolt, West Virginia, entered her heavenly home on March 16, 2026, at the age of 66. Gwen lived a life marked by kindness, devotion, and unwavering faith, touching countless hearts along the way.

For 18 years, Gwen faithfully served in the kitchen at Appalachian Bible College, where her warm smile and gentle spirit made everyone feel like family. She was also a proud and faithful member of Fairdale Freewill Baptist Church, where her love for the Lord was evident in every part of her life.

Gwen's journey through life was not without hardship. She bravely fought a 27-month battle with lung cancer, facing every day with strength, grace, and faith that never faltered. Her courage inspired all who walked beside her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Isaac and Eula Mae Sturgell of Man, WV, and three brothers: Roger, Brad, and Jackie Sturgell, her father and mother-in-law Alfred Toler and Flora Toler.

Gwen is survived by her devoted husband of 51 years, Donald Toler, who stood by her side through every joy and every trial. She leaves behind her cherished children: Rebecca Vance (Kevin) of Bolt and Donald Toler (Alicia) of Glen Daniel. She was a loving grandmother to Donavan Vance, Devin Vance (Rabekka), Tristan Toler, and Madison Toler, and a proud great-grandmother to Jedidiah Vance, Artimus Vance, and Denailiza Vance, each of whom brought her tremendous joy.

Gwen is also survived by her siblings: Clifford (Libby) Sturgell of Moneta,VA; Sherwood Sturgell of Charleston; Ray (Cathy) Sturgell of Richfield, NC; Gisele Blankenship of Logan, WV; Mary (Ronnie) Daniel of Lexington, NC; Sally (Tom) Mitchell of Sevierville, TN; and Kathryn (John) Dempsey of Fairdale, Alfred Toler Jr. (Nitro) , Shirlene Johnson (Nitro) , Matthew (Lynn) Toler (Southmont NC), and Barbara Ferrell (Southmont NC), along with many beloved nieces and nephews.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the compassionate staff at the Carl Larson Cancer Center, Ruby Memorial Cancer Center, CAMC Cancer Center, CAMC General Hospital, and CAMC Memorial Hospital for the exceptional care and kindness shown to Gwen throughout her illness. A very special and heartfelt thank you is extended to Hospice of Southern West Virginia for the comfort, dignity, and loving support they provided during her final days. The family is also incredibly grateful for the many friends and loved ones who offered prayers, support, and acts of kindness during this difficult time. A particularly special thank you goes to her sister, Sally, whose unwavering love, care, and presence were truly a Godsend.

Services to honor Gwen's life will be held at Rose and Quesenberry on Friday, March 20, 2026. Family may visit at 11:00 am; friends may visit from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm, with a worship service to follow at 2:00 pm, celebrating Gwen's steadfast faith and the hope she carried. Pastor Dean Adams will be officiating. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Park, Beckley, WV.

Pallbearers will be her family.

Gwen lived a life of love, service, and faith. Though she will be deeply missed, her legacy continues in the hearts of all who loved her.

Private online condolences and other expressions of sympathy may be directed to the family via our guestbook at www.roseandquesenberry.net .

Arrangements are by Rose and Quesenberry Funeral Home, 1901 South Kanawha Street, Beckley, WV.