Avanell M. Sturgill

Avanell M. Sturgill, born Avanell M. Van Gilder on October 25, 1937, in Czar, West Virginia, passed away on June 21, 2026, at Wooster Community Hospital.

Throughout her life, Avanell was known for her dedication as a homemaker, a role in which she found both purpose and fulfillment. She was committed to her family, lending her kindness and care to every endeavor in her household. Avanell’s marriage to Robert Sturgill on November 24, 1955, marked the beginning of a partnership rooted in love and mutual support. Together, they built a family that was always at the center of her heart.

Beyond her devotion at home, Avanell nurtured a variety of interests that enriched both her life and the lives of those around her. She was especially talented in sewing for others, a skill she used generously to provide comfort and joy. Her passion for making quilts was renowned among family and friends, and many cherished the handiwork she so lovingly created. Avanell was also an enthusiastic member of her bowling team, finding friendship and camaraderie at the lanes. She enjoyed the spirit of adventure found in going on bus trips, relishing new experiences and the community they fostered.

A woman of strong faith, Avanell attended Ashland Nazarene, where she contributed her voice to the church choir. Her commitment to her church community reflected her caring and dedicated nature, traits she expressed in all areas of her life.

Avanell’s legacy lives on through her children: Donna (Tim) Whitenack of Polk, Nelda Sturgill of Indianapolis, Indiana, Mark Sturgill (Teresa) of Hamilton, Ohio, and Paul (Tonia) Sturgill of West Salem. She is also remembered by her twelve grandchildren, twenty seven great grandchildren and nine great great grandchildren, whose lives have been shaped by her warmth and guidance. Avanell is survived by her brothers, Margel (Rosalie) Van Gilder of Spencer, Ohio and Roger (Pat) Van Gilder of Alabama and a daughter in law, Jennifer Sturgill.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert Sturgill Sr., who passed in 1992, and her son, Robert Sturgill Jr., who passed in 2020. She is also preceded by her brothers Harold, Donald, Gene, Willis, and Larry.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at a visitation to be held on Saturday, June 27, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Truth Baptist Church, 12457 Elyria Road, West Salem, Ohio 44287. A funeral service will follow at the same location from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow the services at Hazzard Cemetery. 

Avanell M. Sturgill’s life was one of loving service, quiet strength, and steadfast faith. She will be remembered with deep respect and enduring affection by all who knew her. The staff at Matteson Funeral Home in West Salem is honored to serve the Sturgill family as we honor Avanell’s memory. If you have a photo or memory of Avanell to share, please share one on the Matteson Funeral Home website at mattesonfh.com.