James E. “Boe” Toler, 67, of Belle, passed away on Saturday, October 8, 2016, of severe heart and renal disease at St. Mary’s Medical Center, in Huntington, WV.
He was a graduate of DuPont High School, and a member of the Pipefitters Union working mainly at the DuPont Plant in Belle. Known for his love of politics, he wrote columns in the 1980’s for the Charleston Gazette where he often poked fun at local politicians who were not representing their constituents in the manner he believed taxpayers deserved. Nothing made him happier than to receive a heated letter or an irate phone call from the “public servant” on the hot seat that week. He even ran for the House of Delegates one year and was very proud that he received several hundred votes considering he spent only $150 on his campaign. He was best known for his love of the “blues” and spent many hours listening to his favorite artists including Tab Benoit, Albert King, and Otis Rush. Family, friends, and even his doctors often received copies of his favorite singers’ music. He had a true heart for animals and especially loved his dogs. Today Boe is reunited with House Cat, Moo Cow, and Yoshi. He also loved his Dodge (Hemi) Ram truck and just recently, cherry popsicles. He read constantly and two favorite authors were Elmore Leonard and Stephen King. In June he was the recipient of a signed copy of King’s latest book. Boe was one of the most original people who ever walked the earth and was also one of the most generous. He was well-loved by those who knew him, and we will miss him forever. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward H. “Jim” Toler and Eileen Walker Toler; sister, Juanita Joan Toler; and brother-in-law, Robert Null.
Survivors include his brother, Ed Toler of Belle; sisters, Jewel Null of Dallas, NC; Sandra Walker (Cecil) of Richmond, KY; Bonny Rushbrook (Eddie) of Scott Depot; Elizabeth Toler of Dallas, NC; Several nieces and nephews; Special Friend, Kathy Moore and close friends Richard and Kathy Taylor, and his dog, “Mommy.”
The family would like to thank all of the people involved in his care, especially Chris and his staff at Fresenius Kidney care and the staff at the Fresenius facility in Kanawha City and the staff at the Cleveland Clinic through the years. In addition, we are so grateful for Dr. Shake and the staff at St. Mary’s Medical Center who went out of their way to keep us informed and were so unbelievably kind to him and us. Also thank you to the unknown man (angel) at the Kanawha City facility who offered him his own beautiful blanket when he was so cold, and told him to keep it. Please know that blanket sheltered him in three other facilities and at home each day. He would never go anywhere without it.
The family would like to express a special Thank You to the staff at the Cleveland Clinic for their care for Boe through the years. At his request, there will be no services. Curry Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Nancy and I were sorry to here of Bo’s passing, we are praying that God will give comfort to all of us who loved him.
James’ obituary tells the story of a life well lived! My memory of him is of that big smile just like in this picture and also of his kindness to everyone. I relished his columns in the Gazette which never failed to amuse and inform. My condolences to his family.
My condolences to all family members and friends. I’m very sorry for your loss.
I MET “BOE” AT THE BELLE COMMUNITY CENTER SEVERAL YEARS AGO AT EXERCISE CLASS. WE USE TO WALK AROUND THE GYM FOR ABOUT AN HOUR THREE TIMES A WEEK TALKING WHILE WALKING.
TO ME “BOE” WAS A GOOD MAN, AND I ENJOYED OUR CONVERSATIONS VERY MUCH. HE WILL TRULY BE MISSED BY ME.
I am Boe’s oldest sister Jewel. Boe spoke of you and other walking buddies often. He really enjoyed spending time with you all.
Bonny, I’m so sorry for the loss of your brother. I only met him a few times but he was someone that made an impression on people…a true character. I’m sure you will sorely miss him. Prayers to you and your family.