Tonya Shemika Johnson

November 1, 1974 - July 3, 2021

On November 1st, 1974 in Fort Lauderdale, FL Tonya Shemika Johnson graced the world with her vibrant presence. She was born to the parentage of Nathaniel Johnson and Lillie Ruth Baker Johnson. Tonya was introduced to Christ at an early age. She was baptized and became a member of the Greater Antioch Missionary Baptist Church. Tonya was always vivacious and athletic. Growing up her favorite pass times included cheering, playing softball, and dancing. Tonya was a cheerleader for the Northwest Chiefs and a member of The Girls of Poison Dance Team at FAMU. Tonya received her formal education through the Broward County Public school system. She graduated from Blanche Ely High School in 1992 and went on to attend Florida A&M University and Lynn University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice. In June of 2000, she began her career with the Broward County Sheriff’s Office where she worked diligently for 21 years. Above all, one of Tonya’s most prized accomplishments was being a mother to her beloved daughter Ja’Coreyah. Jay was her pride and joy; there was nothing she wouldn’t do for her Ladybug. Tonya lived a joyous life dedicated to her family and serving others in many capacities. Tonya truly enjoyed being a team mom and treasurer for her daughter’s travel basketball teams, as she was always Jay’s number fan. Her passion for aiding and mentoring others is what lead her to serving on the culinary arts committee at the Greater Antioch Missionary Baptist Church and becoming a cheerleading coach for the Pompano Chiefs and the Boys and Girls Club of Broward County. Tonya’s love for her community and commitment to service guided her to becoming a mem- ber of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. Tonya was such an amazing being. Her smile illuminated rooms and her personality lifted spirits. Tonya’s presence had a profound impact on every person who had the privilege of knowing her. She will forever be loved and missed. Tonya is survived by her beautiful and loving daughter; Ja’Coreyah (Ladybug) Clayton, father; Nathaniel Johnson (Marie), mother; Lillie Baker Johnson, siblings; Carolyn Amerson, Dwayne Amerson (Tammy), Jimmy Brown, Consuelo Johnson, and Simone Brown, God Son; Mark “Scooty” Houston, God Mother; Susie Lowe- Lacy, fiancé; Excel Lucas along with a host of loving aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends.