KITTANNING, PA —A joyful day of endurance and celebration turned heartbreaking on Saturday when 77-year-old Toby Atwood of Erie, Pennsylvania, tragically passed away during the Kittanning Half Marathon. The sudden loss has left the Erie community and marathon participants stunned and grieving the death of a woman whose life embodied strength, love, and unwavering devotion to family.
Atwood collapsed near the race route late Saturday evening, and emergency crews responded immediately. Despite swift intervention and resuscitation efforts, she was pronounced deceased at the scene. Authorities have stated the cause appears to be medical in nature, with no signs of foul play. An autopsy may follow to determine the exact circumstances surrounding her untimely passing.
What was meant to be a personal celebration of perseverance and vitality instead became a painful moment etched into the hearts of everyone who knew her — or who saw her smile at the starting line just hours earlier.
**A Life Rooted in Family and Service**
Toby Atwood was far more than a marathon runner. She was a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and a steadfast matriarch who devoted her life to those she loved. Known for her gentle warmth and boundless encouragement, she was a quiet but mighty force who shaped generations with compassion and grace.
She is survived by her loving children, Shanna (Donald) Taylor and Dean (Penni) Atwood, and leaves behind a legacy of strength through her grandchildren: Natasha (Christapher) Taylor, Brian (Ashley) Miller, John (Annie) Miller, Kathleen Patten, Jessica Atwood, and Travis (Kelcee) Atwood. Her pride and joy extended to her 26 great-grandchildren, each of whom she loved fiercely and unconditionally.
Friends recall how her kitchen table was always open, her advice always grounded, and her support unwavering. Whether attending school plays, hosting Sunday dinners, or lending a shoulder during difficult times, Toby’s presence brought comfort and connection.
**An Enduring Spirit to the Very End**
It came as no surprise to those closest to Toby that she chose to participate in the Kittanning Half Marathon. Her passion for staying active and her refusal to be defined by age made her an inspiration to young and old alike.
“She lived life with her whole heart,” said a family member through tears. “Even in her final moments, she was doing something she loved — pushing boundaries, showing us all how to live fully.”
The sudden nature of her passing has left the Erie and Kittanning communities grappling with disbelief. Yet amid the sorrow, tributes have poured in from fellow runners, friends, and loved ones — all sharing stories of her kindness, resilience, and that unmistakable light she carried wherever she went.
**A Community in Mourning, United in Tribute**
As news of her passing spreads, the outpouring of love is growing. Social media is filled with heartfelt memories and messages of condolence. Many describe her as a role model — a woman who offered encouragement not just through words, but through the life she led.
A memorial service is being planned by the Atwood family, with details to be released in the coming days. In the meantime, those who wish to honor Toby’s life are encouraged to perform small acts of kindness in her memory — something she practiced daily, without ever needing recognition.
In a world often rushed and distracted, Toby Atwood stood for presence, patience, and unconditional love. Her loss is profound, but so too is the legacy she leaves behind.
**Rest peacefully, Toby. You ran your race with grace — and crossed your final finish line surrounded by love.
