WILMINGTON — Joan Leslie Skvaril, known to her family and friends as Toni, passed this earthly life much too soon after a hard-fought battle Sunday, December 17, 2023.
Toni was born July 16, 1954 to Jacob and Eleanor Skvaril. She was one of three children, predeceased by her parents and her beloved sister Renee Skvaril.
She is also predeceased by her partner, Rhonda Lee Mercer.
She is survived by her brother, Jeff Skvaril (Cerila, deceased); three nephews, Kody (Rachel), Caleb and Ivan; and great nephews, Noah and Levi. Toni is also survived by her family here at home, niece, Renee Bloodworth (Benny, deceased) and her four children, Jordan Zorio (Michael), Natalie Hernandez, Luke Hernandez and Gordon Bloodworth.
Toni was an avid outdoors woman who enjoyed surfing, scuba diving, sailing, fishing and teaching these things to her Nieces and Nephews. She was a good steward of our coast and inland waterways and taught her family to do the same. She enjoyed a long career as marine technician making many trips over the years on R.V. Dan Moore and loved the ship’s crew dearly. She was a lifelong learner, talented woodworker and crafts person who loved to travel and see new places. Toni was a long-time resident of Wilmington and much of the charm of this area that draws people here was embodied in her spirit and the way she lived and loved. She leaves behind many beloved friends and close lifelong dear friend, Wanda Whitley, who took great care of her at the end of her life, and her two fur babies, Grant and Mango.
Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family here.
