Mrs. Tonya Marie Thompson, 56, of Concord, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 16, 2024, at Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center in Charlotte, surrounded by her loving family.
A Celebration of Life Service to honor her legacy will be held at 6:00 pm on Monday, September 23, 2024, at Antioch Community Church, officiated by Pastor Mike Cowen. The family will receive friends from 5:00 to 6:00 pm prior to the service. A graveside service will take place at 11:00 am on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, at the VA National Cemetery in Salisbury, NC.
Born in Phoenix, AZ, Tonya was the beloved daughter of Judy Kay Pemberton Payne and James Richard Payne (Airman 2nd Class). She was a proud graduate of Sheldon Jackson College in Sitka, Alaska, and pursued a fulfilling career as a technical writer, contributing her expertise across sectors such as Aerospace, IT, Banking, and her favorite, Aggregate. Throughout her professional life, Tonya remained dedicated to her work and the relationships she built along the way.
A faithful and beloved member of Antioch Community Church. She truly loved to worship Jesus, and she made sure everyone who encountered her, encountered Yeshua. Tonya served in numerous roles within the church, finding joy in her deep connection with her faith community. Even during her battle, she drew strength and the peace of God from her unwavering trust in the Lord.
Tonya’s life was filled with creativity and so much joy. She had a passion for crafting, baking, and could often be found watching her beloved Hallmark Christmas movies. Above all, she was a devoted daughter of Christ, a wonderful wife, mother, sister, and encourager, and she cherished every moment spent with her family.
Tonya is survived by her husband of 25 years, Terry Dwayne Thompson of Concord; daughters, Trina Thompson of Concord, Sara Barker and her husband, Evan of Hawaii, and Kayla Thompson of Concord; sons, Jason Thompson of Alaska, Aaron Thompson of Alaska, and Sean Thompson of Arizona; sisters, Garie Cowles, Teresa Cosman, and Jessica VanTrease and her husband, Eric, all of Alaska.
She will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know her, but her love, kindness, and faith will forever be remembered
“Yahweh, you alone are my inheritance. You are my prize, my pleasure, and my portion. You hold my destiny and its timing in your hands. Your pleasant path leads me to pleasant places. I’m overwhelmed by the privileges that come with following you!”
Psalm 16:5-6 TPT