Madeline Epling (nee Toler) 95, of Lebanon, passed away on March 24, 2021, at StoneRidge Town Center in Myerstown. Known to many as “Mattie”, she was born on Feb. 20, 1926, in Vulcan, West Virginia, to Ed and Nancy Toler.
Madeline grew up in Matewan, West Virginia and attended Matewan High School. Madeline’s high school music teacher said she had a ‘Broadway quality’ singing voice. Madeline enjoyed attending Broadway shows in New York City and concerts at the Hershey Arena, and her favorite performer was Liberace.
Madeline moved to Lebanon in the 1960s and spent her entire adult life there. Madeline worked as a sales associate at Boscov’s department store for 42 years. Her work ethic was legendary, always delivering top notch customer service. Madeline was known amongst her co-workers for her quick and devilish wit, and her positive spirit was contagious. Madeline was a regular for many years on Friday nights at Schwalm’s restaurant for dinner and dessert (her favorite part of every meal).
Madeline was a renowned storyteller, always including a healthy dose of imagination and humor, and often regaling her sister, nephews and countless others with many a tall tale.
Madeline is survived by her sister and best friend, Marilyn Hellman, of Lebanon, her son, James, of Florida, her nephew, David Hellman and his wife Robbie, of Virginia, her nephew, Steven Hellman, and his partner, Candace, of Arizona, her great-niece, Elizabeth Hellman, of Virginia and her great-nephew, Sam Hellman, of Maryland.
Madeline was preceded in death by her husband Cecil Epling. Madeline’s final resting place will be with Cecil in Williamson, West Virginia. rohlandfh.com
