James Thomas Toher, "Skip", 79 of Ashland passed away on Monday October 27, 2025. Born in Newton he was the son of the late Robert G. Toher and Esther (Batey) Toher.

Skip is survived by his loving wife W. Jeanne (Pennington) Toher. Together they shared 54 years.

Skip was raised in Newton. He attended Newton High School, Newton Jr. College, and Franklin Institute of Boston.

Skip was an automobile technician and for 25 years the proud owner of Newtonville Sunoco. Throughout his life, his passion for cars served him in both his career and hobbies. He was a classic car buff. He also enjoyed cruising on his boat with the family in the summer from his lakeside cottage in Windham, Maine, and snowmobiling there in the winter. He was a dog-lover and music lover (especially the "oldies" music), and playing his guitar, banjo, piano, or organ came natural to him with his dog by his side. He enjoyed hanging out with his buddies over coffee in his garage or at the local coffee shop. He also derived a lot of satisfaction from caring for his property and tinkering with his cars and equipment. He was a long-time member of a local car club, enjoying the car cruises, car shows and the "car talk" with his friends. Skip (along with his wife) was a very active member of the Newtonville Methodist Church, "MYF" (Methodist Youth Fellowship), and Young Adults. These special years impacted his life forever, and he and his wife have remained forever friends with all who shared this experience.

In addition to his loving wife Jeanne, Skip is survived by his son Christopher J. Toher of Haverhill and his sister Janice (Toher) Rapp of Natick. He also leaves three sisters-in-law, Lynda Doswell of Natick, Jacqueline Pennington of Sammamish, WA and Judith Watts (Richard) of Dennis. Skip also leaves many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews who held a special place in his heart.

In addition to his parents, Skip was predeceased by his brother Robert B. Toher and sister Beverley E. (Toher) Ferran.

Skip was a warm-hearted, down-to earth guy, a very devoted husband, father, and friend. He had a great sense of humor and many gifted talents and skills. He had an aptitude for fixing almost anything and even after retirement, he was always happy to give assistance to neighbors and friends with their yard equipment, cars and more. He was recognized by the Boy Scouts for his long-term support of local troops. Skip will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him, and his legacy of kindness, laughter, and generosity will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

A celebration of Skip's life will be held Tuesday, November 18th at the Matarese Funeral Home, 325 Main St. Ashland, MA. Visiting hours will be held at 10 am prior to the 11:00 am service. A private burial will follow.

If desired, donations may be made in memory of James T. Toher ("Skip") to: The Alzheimer's Association or to Baypath Humane Society in Hopkinton, MA