Obituary of Havilah P. Toland

Springwater – Havilah P. Toland, 93 years of age, passed away early Friday morning, December 27, 2024 at the Livingston County Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation where he has resided for the past several years. Havilah was born July 23, 1931 in Canadice the son of Charles A. and Florence (Johnson) Toland and has a remained a life resident of the Springwater area. He graduated from Hemlock High School in 1948 and then earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree and Master’s degree in Education from the University of Rochester. Havilah was a science teacher at Rush Henrietta High School for 30 years. Not having children of his own, Havilah was a mentor to hundreds throughout his years of teaching and beyond. To this day he had contact and helped former students. He was a genuine and caring person that helped so many. Havilah also served his country in the United States Army from September 14, 1953 until his honorable discharge July 29, 1955. Education and helping his students was just one of his passions. Springwater was the next. He was Mr. Springwater! He was so involved with all aspects of the Springwater Municipality and was constantly trying to improve it and make it a welcoming community to all whether just passing through or relocating to Springwater. His volunteering in the community was endless and a few of the organizations were the Historical Society, TRIAD, Springwater American Legion, the Springwater Gala Committee and the Literacy Volunteers of America. He authored three books and his most recent was a continuum of the History of Springwater. A proud moment for Havilah was being selected for an Honor Flight to Washington D.C. Havilah was pre-deceased by his parents, Charles and Florence Toland; and his brother Arthur R. Toland. He is survived by many friends, former students and the entire Springwater community. Funeral services for Havilah will be Saturday January 11, 2025 at 10am at St. George-Forsythe Funeral Home. Military honors and interment will take place immediately following services at Mt. Vernon Evergreen Cemetery, Kellogg Road, Springwater. Contributions in memory of Havilah P. Toland may be made to the Springwater American Legion Post, 7998 School St., Springwater, NY 14560.