Tonya Tipton

Tonya Annette Tipton was born to Perry Johnson and Elizabeth Scales in Cleveland, Ohio on October 2nd, 1964. She was unexpectedly called home to be with God on November 15th, 2022.

While Tonya walked this earth, she radiated life, light, and laughter. Her love of family, friends, and the Lord was infinite and could be felt from a mile away.

To Tonya, the greatest gift you could extend was that of real human connection. She built bonds that stood the test of time–strong relationships overflowing with care, compassion, and fun. Whether exploring new places, enjoying spontaneous adventures at the casino, or simply watching the latest Hallmark movies on her best friend's couch, Tonya’s deep relationships with friends and family were the center of her entire universe and gave her life.

Tonya loved the Lord so much and knew Him very well. She also loved her church, New Jerusalem Baptist (New J), and her church family, who became an extended version of her actual family. Of course, Tonya absolutely adored her “babies”–those who attended the daycare she owned for a number of years.

Additionally, Tonya loved to travel and really enjoyed her after-church lunch outings with her New J family. As Tonya was a people magnet, she had a lot of friends whom she cared for deeply and would call to simply check in, often ending her conversations by affectionately saying, “Smooches, Love you!” (what everyone would give to hear her say that one additional time!).

Beyond her quick wit, infectious laughter, and inspiring energy, Tonya will be missed most for what she offered the world: A reminder that life is about truly embracing both the here and now and creating your own future.

Indeed, Tonya’s influence was felt every time she entered a room–her presence was both impactful and cherished. She was a brilliant, humble, phenomenal woman. Given that, her absence has certainly left a tremendous void, particularly for those who were lucky enough to call her Mom, grandma, sister, aunt, family, friend, or co-worker.

Tonya Tipton is survived by her children, Antuan Shields, René Cheatham III, and Tenisha Tipton; her siblings, Alvin Scales, Karyn Scales, Melissa Sayers, Perry Johnson Jr., Gerri (Johnson) Hobdy, Sherri Lee and Terry Farmer; her uncles, Jim Tipton and Mike Tipton, and aunt, Mary Green; her grandchildren, Antuan Shields Jr., Jewel’Uan Shields, Ny’Onna Shields, Mari’Onna Shields, Da’Mari Shields, Skye Shields, and Serenity Cheatham along with Tahj, Tahiry and Jream; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

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