Tonya Loraine Davenport

Tonya Loraine Davenport Earth’s Gift: May 21, 1969 – Heaven’s Gain: March 15, 2025 Tonya Loraine Davenport was born on May 21, 1969, in San Antonio, Texas, to the late Ladye Viviane Wade and Eugene Davenport. From her early days, Tonya exemplified brilliance and a zest for life. She attended public schools in the San Antonio Independent School District, where she made her mark as a cheerleader, band member, and athlete at Emerson Middle School. During her time at Lewis W. Fox Technical High School, Tonya showcased her musical talents as a flutist in the Buffalo Band, excelled academically as an honor student, and gained recognition in the 1987 edition of Who’s Who Among American High School Students. Her educational journey continued at Texas Southern University in Houston, Texas, beginning in the summer of 1987. There, she proudly joined the prestigious Ocean of Soul Marching Band. Faith played a pivotal role throughout Tonya’s life. She worshipped at New Mount Pleasant Baptist Church as a child under Reverend John Carlton Allen's leadership. As an adult, she was an active choir member at East St. Paul United Methodist Church and later joined The Faith Center, where she served in the Hospitality Ministry under Pastor Vincent Campbell. Tonya's joy and pride were her family. She was a devoted mother to three children: Jamel Laron Smith, Jawaun Allen Smith, and Nia Ricole Horne, and a loving grandmother to Ava J. Smith, who brought sunshine and happiness into her life. Tonya also lovingly embraced bonus children Marquise Black, Ayana Black, and Elijah Preddie, who affectionately called her “Mama Bear.” In her professional career, Tonya excelled in Information Systems, contributing to several esteemed healthcare organizations, including her most current employer WellMed, where she was a Sr. Data Analyst. Her entrepreneurial spirit shone through her years as an independent beauty consultant with Mary Kay Cosmetics and on the AIB TV Network's Women of Destiny show, where Tonya inspired audiences with her segment, Step Up, Reach Out, Make Things Happen. Her philosophy culminated in her book, Step Up, Reach Out, Make Things Happen: 7 Powers to Win. A dedicated member of Toastmasters International, Tonya attained the esteemed designation of Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM), Toastmasters' highest honor. She served in leadership roles, including District 14 Parliamentarian during the 2010–2011 term, empowering countless individuals with her mentorship and guidance. Tonya is preceded in death by her beloved parents and sister, Angela Davenport Bush. She leaves behind a legacy cherished by her children, Jamel Laron Smith, Jawaun Allen Smith, Nia Ricole Horne, and granddaughter Ava J. Smith. Also honoring her memory are her siblings, Sonya Wade San Antonio, Texas, Charles Francis (Verna) Ellenwood, Georgia, Tracy Alexander (Treavel) Cedar Hill, Texas, and bonus sister Stacy Winslow, Houston, Texas. A host of nieces and nephews—Patrick Wade (Sharon), Nicholas Wade (Mia), Khadija Francis, Alexandria Nichols, Clinton “Tre” Bush, Imani Francis, Danyelle Wade, Braylen Wade and many aunts, uncles and cousins —carry forward her spirit. Special recognition belongs to Ava, Tonya’s spirited nine-year-old granddaughter an aspiring Olympic gold medalist, and Benji, her cherished pet pooch, who brought her immense joy. Lastly, heartfelt gratitude goes out to Tonya’s cherished childhood friends who have been by her side since the very beginning, as well as the incredible friends she has made throughout her journey. Tonya Loraine Davenport lived a life defined by purpose, passion, and faith. She leaves behind an enduring legacy of love, empowerment, and unwavering determination. Tonya’s mantra echoed her dynamic presence and indomitable spirit: I’m active, I’m attractive, I’m in demand, I’m a mover and shaker, and I work my plan. I love to speak, and I have a dream: To inspire and empower all to the best That God created them to be. I’m a woman on a mission, I will reach my goal; I have power, I have purpose, and I am on a roll! The celebration of life service for Tonya Davenport will be live streamed on Friday, April 4, 2025 at 11:00 AM. If the event is interrupted at any time due to technical issues, the entire event will be uploaded and available to view later in the day. Please copy and paste the link to share, or simply click on the link to view the event. https://vimeo.com/event/5020235

Tributes

Tonya Loraine Davenport

May 21, 1969 - March 15, 2025