Abigail Lynn Toegel

Abigail Lynn Toegel, 55, of Keene, NH, passed away on February 2nd, 2026 surrounded by her loving family.

Abby was born at the Elliot Community Hospital, here in Keene, to her parents Alan R. and Elaine M. (Gass) Toegel. It became apparent early on that Abby had a condition known as Cerebral Palsy. Though unable to walk or speak, over time she and her family learned to understand her basic needs and wants through facial expressions and gestures. Her sense of humor and ability to communicate so much with her smile, made her attractive to all who knew her.

Fortunately for Abby, the state of NH was forward thinking when it came to individuals with special needs. Sometimes her parents had to work hard to convince others of what resources and equipment Abby would need to grow and expand her horizons. A good portion of her school years were spent in her home environment with amazing people coming to her house to assist her and help with her education. In her late teens she was able to learn in a more formal environment at the Crotched Mountain School.

In her twenties, Abby became affiliated with Monadnock Developmental Services and the caring and resourceful people of Chesco. Abby discovered that she had a talent for painting pictures and spent many hours of hard work at her craft. Her work was seen and bought for several years at Keene’s Art in the Park. In addition, she would often feature her work during Keene’s Art Walk. At one time her work was displayed at the NH State building.

MDS and Chesco also made it possible for Abby to live in a small home with staff to assist her and her roommates. The normality of this life gave her a great sense of independence and security for which her family will always be grateful.

In addition to her art, Abby enjoyed the cats in her home, shopping, dyeing her hair a variety of colors, clothes, having her fingernails painted and being with people.

All through her life, Abby had her faith in Jesus Christ. Her surviving family take joy in knowing she is now with Him, running, jumping, dancing and singing to Him.

Abby is survived by her father, Alan Toegel of Swanzey; her brothers and their wives, Steve & Crystal Toegel of Swanzey and Dan & Martha Toegel of Chesterfield; her nieces and their families, Danielle and Andre Mcbreairty (daughter Tessa), Stephanie and Brad Francis (son Samuel and daughter Ellia), Anna Weigle (son Ezra); and her good friend Marlana Molesky and her many Chesco friends and caregivers She was predeceased by her mother Elaine M. Toegel, her nieces Adelyn and Natalia McBreairty, and her good friend Jeannie Fergerson .

Services for Abby will be private. Cournoyer Funeral Home & Cremation Center are assisting with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made in Abby’s name to Chesco, Inc., 145 Gilbo Ave., Keene, NH 03431