Rudolph John Toth Jr.

A gifted all-sport athlete, he was drafted by the Seattle Pilots (today’s Milwaukee Brewers) going on to play baseball at the University of Tampa, where he was a proud member of the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity. It was there that he met the love of his life, Deborah Kilmer Toth. They shared more than 51 years of marriage, building a life grounded in devotion, laughter, and unwavering support for one another.

He was a loving and proud father to his three daughters: Shana Logan (Kip), Katrina Matthews (Jacky), and Emily Toth (Jay). Known affectionately as “Butch,” he was a devoted grandfather to Lexi, Kennedy, Xander, and Piper, and a cherished great-grandfather to Melanie. He leaves behind a sister, Eva Graver (Dave), his brother Frank Toth (Sue) and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister, Marie Kuprewicz (Joe).

To many, he was simply known as Coach Toth. He spent over 40 years in the classroom as a physical education teacher and coach, shaping lives through discipline, encouragement, and heart. He started his career at Bayshore Methodist Christian School, followed by McLane Junior High. One of the most profound chapters of his career came somewhat by happenstance—coaching girls varsity basketball at Robinson High School. Under his leadership, the team advanced to the state championship game in 1994. He went on to teach at Blake High School, retiring from Alonso High School.

The relationships he built with his students and athletes left a lasting impact throughout the Tampa Bay Area, where many came to be considered family.

A man of strong faith, he loved God deeply and lived his life with humility and purpose. A lifelong sports fan, he proudly cheered for the Penn State Nittany Lions, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and the Tampa Bay Rays. Truthfully, there wasn’t a sport he didn’t love—he simply loved the game.

A funeral mass will be held 3 p.m. Monday, February 2, at Mary Help of Christians. A Celebration of Life will be held 5-8 p.m. Monday, February 2, 2026 at the Seminole Heights Garden Center.

His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched—as a husband, father, grandfather, teacher, coach, and friend.