Tonya McNeil Obituary (1965 - 2024)

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved Tonya Jean McNeil, who left us too soon on March 10, 2024. Born on July 28, 1965, in Independence, KS, Tonya spent her life showering those around her with love, compassion, and unwavering support. Tonya embodied this sentiment fully, touching the lives of many with her vibrant spirit and warm heart. Tonya was a caregiver by profession, a role she embraced through her innate nurturing qualities. Her employment history spanned various institutions including the University Hospital and a sorority house on the campus of University of Missouri in Columbia, Missouri. However, her true calling was found in Houston, Texas, where she worked as a home health care provider, showing great dedication and compassion. Outside of work, Tonya was the life of the party and never met a stranger. She often had her nails done and enjoyed dressing up. Tonya loved cooking for her family and playing cards, her favorite game being Skipbo. As a passionate sports fan, Tonya’s favorite teams were the KC Chiefs and anything that involved her favorite basketball player, LeBron James. She was also one of her grandson Tyreke's biggest fans, often seen watching his TH3 music videos on YouTube. Tonya's zeal for life and nurturing spirit could be seen in her love for her family, her hobbies, and her work. Her favorite color, blue, was a reflection of her approach to life— serene yet full of depth and vibrancy. Tonya is survived by her daughters Natasha Lewis (Christian), Nautica McNeil-Varnum, Nya McNeil and son Carlos Lee Jr., as well as her grandchildren Te'Juahn Hunt Sr., Tyreke "TH3" Hunt, Christopher Lewis, Nicholas Lewis, Adrielle Lee, Journey Lee, and Cylus Gregory. The joy of her life was her great-grandchild, Te'Juahn Hunt Jr. She is also survived by her siblings Cheryle Barbera, Fred Agee, Harold McNeil, Rhonda McNeil-White, and Darryl McNeil; nieces Kimberly Lacy (Patrick), Latisha Barbera, Mia Barbera, Crystal Barbera, Rosalyn Elias-Collinsworth, and RaShonda White; and nephews Kelly and Chris Agee. Tonya was preceded in death by her parents, James McNeil and Rosella Vann, her brother James Kevin McNeil, companion John King and good friend Kimberly Williams. Tonya's circle of love extended beyond her family, to her cherished friends Estalina Mosby, Valerie Clay, Alicia Sheard, and Teresa Lucas. Tonya's memory will live on in the hearts of those she touched, her smile lighting up the corners of our minds and warming our souls. She will be remembered not just for her actions, but for the compassionate, loving, and supportive person she was. We encourage everyone to share their memories of Tonya and upload photos on her memorial page. Let’s celebrate her life and remember how she made us feel. The service will be held Saturday April 20, 2024 at 2:00 - 3:00 pm SECOND BAPTIST MISSIONARY CHURCH 407 E. BROADWAY COLUMBIA, MO 65203 Repast dinner to follow at 3:30 - 8:00 pm THE AMERICAN LEGION 3669 LEGION LN. COLUMBIA, MO. 65201