Tonya Jane Chronister of Fort Smith, Arkansas (formerly of Heavener, Oklahoma) was born September 10, 1963 in Poteau, Oklahoma to James "Jim" and Sylvia (Summers) Chronister and passed away November 1, 2024 in Fayetteville, Arkansas with her siblings by her side at the age of 61.
She is survived by:
Her husband:
James W. Robb of Fort Smith, Arkansas
Her parents:
Jim and Sylvia Chronister of Heavener, Oklahoma
Her siblings:
Sonya Chronister of Poteau, Oklahoma
Butch Chronister and wife Bea of Heavener, Oklahoma
Darla Chronister of Poteau, Oklahoma
Eight nephews and one niece:
Chris Davis of Poteau, Oklahoma
Jeremy Davis and Abby of Poteau, Oklahoma
Marcus Skelton and Erica of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Cynthia Chronister of Heavener, Oklahoma
Levi Chronister and Jennifer both of Heavener, Oklahoma
Eric Chronister and Brandi of Poteau, Oklahoma
Brice Washington and Samantha of Shady Point, Oklahoma
Lane Washington and Harmoney of Panama City Beach, Florida
Isaiah Washington and Kayleana of Panama City Beach, Florida
Her dog:
Chloe
Family and friends
A host of nieces, nephews, family, and friends
She was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Walter and Mary Chronister and maternal grandparents, William and Dessie Summers.
Tonya was raised in Heavener, Oklahoma with her sister Sonya Chronister, brother Butch Chronister, and sister Darla Chronister. She was known affectionately as the Protector. Tonya also attended Westark College in Fort Smith and competed in the Miss Westark Beauty Pageant. She graduated from the University of Arkansas in May, 1995 with a Masters Degree with honors in Zoology and Biology. She also won The Davis M. Causey Award for Outstanding Jr. in Zoology. Tonya was little in size but huge in heart. She was passionate about animals, especially dogs. She was deeply loved by her family and friends. Tonya did not have children of her own, but often referred to her baby sisters "kiddos" as her own. She enjoyed the summer months and sunshine. Tonya talked of a trip to Florida and being bit by the beach bug. She was an avid Hogs football, baseball, and basketball fan. Tonya will be dearly missed.
Memorial service will be 2:00 p.m., Friday, November 8, 2024 at Family Praise and Worship Center with Reverend Donald Benefield and Brother Tanner Turk officiating. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Dowden-Roberts Funeral Home of Heavener, Oklahoma.
Memorial service
Family Praise and Worship Center
Friday, November 8, 2024
2:00 PM

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