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Tonya Schell Smith, born August 8, 1966, in Longmont, Colorado, passed away peacefully on February 26, 2026, surrounded by her loved ones.
Tonya was raised in Tibbie, Alabama, where she developed her love for the outdoors and family gatherings. She proudly served in the National Guard and carried that same spirit of dedication and strength throughout her life.
A devoted mother, grandmother, daughter, and sister, Tonya worked hard to provide for her family and cherished every moment spent with them. She loved seeing the world, enjoying nature, and bringing her family together whenever possible.
Tonya was the beloved daughter of Mary Alline Williams and the late Carl Michael Schell, and the granddaughter of Virginia and Ulios "Pete" McIlwain. She was the loving mother of Clinton Michael Smith (Salena Smith) and Ryan Fisher Smith (Catie Smith,) and the proud grandmother of Adelena Michelle Smith and Kelly Brooks Smith.
She is also survived by her siblings Desha Rhodes, Amber Williams, Charlotte Williams, Johnny Schell, Timothy Williams, and Eric McIlwain. She was preceded in death by her father, Carl Michael Schell, her grandparents, Virginia and Ulios McIlwain, and her brother, Junior Howard.
Tonya will forever be remembered for her strength, kindness, and deep love for her family. She will be missed beyond measure by all who knew and loved her.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Tonya Schell Smith, please visit our floral store.