Emma Toth

Emma L. (E.C.) Toth, 79, of Tottenville, a former employee of the S.S. White dental company who had a passion for puzzles, died Sunday at home.

Born Emma Bischoff in Eltingville, she lived in Richmond Valley and Eltingville before settling in Tottenville 53 years ago. She moved briefly to Stuart, Fla., about nine years ago, returning to Tottenville two years later.

From 1963 to 1986, she worked for the S.S. White Dental Manufacturing Company, a large complex located for more than a century in Prince's Bay before it moved in 1970 to Holmdel, N.J. Mrs. Toth was the first person without a college degree to attain the position of time-study analyst at S.S. White, said her daughter, Deborah Godfrey.

It was a man's job, Mrs. Godfrey added, noting that her mother broke the gender barrier with her promotion.

In 1987, Mrs. Toth joined Thomas & Betts, an electrical supply company in Elizabeth, where she also worked as a time-study analyst. She retired in 1995.

A graduate of Tottenville High School, Mrs. Toth enjoyed reading, playing solitaire and solving puzzles - both jigsaw and crossword. She also participated in several bowling leagues.

She was an active member of Bethel United Methodist Church in Tottenville.

My mother cherished her family, church and country and was very proud of her independence, said her daughter, Mrs. Godfrey. Her home was the gathering place for a nice cup of tea and laughter. She had a way of making everyone feel special and welcome.

She was truly a strong and amazing woman who was loved, respected and never alone. My brother and I are truly fortunate to have had her as our mother.

In addition to her daughter, Mrs. Toth is survived by a son, Paul; three sisters, Joan Wegener, Gloria Shaw and Gail Fries, and three grandchildren.

The funeral will be Friday from the Bedell-Pizzo Funeral Home, Tottenville, with a service at 10 a.m. in Bethel United Methodist Church. Arrangements include cremation.

Services: Bethel UM Church Friday, September 6,2013 10:00AM

Visitation: Bedell-Pizzo Funeral Home Thursday, September 5,2013 2-4 & 7-9PM

Memorials: In lieu of flowers, contributions to Bethel UM Restoration Fund in Emma's name would be appreciated.

Cemetery: Rosehill Crematory

Location: Bedell-Pizzo Funeral Home

Church: Bethel United Methodist Church