Auta Olisha Toney - Obituary

In loving memory of Mrs. Auta Olisha Toney, 50, of Memphis, TN, who departed this life on Sunday, February 23, 2025, at Memorial Sloan Kettering Hospital in New York City, NY.

Auta was born on April 19, 1974, to Louis Boykins, Sr. and the late Geraldine Wright in Memphis, TN. She was preceded in death by her brother, Stanphany Boykins, and mother-in-law, Earnestyne Davis Toney.

Auta grew up in the Whitehaven area of Memphis, beginning her education at Oakshire Elementary before attending Havenview Junior High. She later spent time in Ft. Lauderdale, FL, with her cousin, Nikki Garrett, and her aunt, Pauline Garrett, before returning to Memphis to complete her education at Fairley High School, where she graduated in 1992. Auta was an exceptional student, graduating at the top of her class, tutoring student-athletes, and excelling as a member of a nationally recognized cheerleading team.

Her academic excellence continued at Christian Brothers University (CBU), where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Information Technology. At CBU, Auta was an integral member of the cheerleading squad, ultimately becoming captain. During this time, she also joined the United States Navy Reserves, exemplifying her commitment to discipline, service, and leadership. She later pursued advanced technical certifications and graduate coursework in computer programming, software validation and data analytics.

Auta built an impressive career in data analytics and information technology, beginning at Northrop Grumman before rising to the role of Manager of Data Analytics at FedEx Corporation. She was highly respected in her field, known for her unparalleled expertise in multiple programming languages and her ability to bring data to life, often saying, "I make data sing."

Beyond her professional achievements, Auta was deeply committed to service and sisterhood. In 1996, she was initiatedinto Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (Mu Epsilon Chapter), a bond she cherished throughout her life. She continued her dedication through the Beta Epsilon Omega Chapter, where she held numerous leadership roles, including Graduate Advisor to Mu Epsilon, Membership Committee Chair, Fundraising Committee Chair, and Program Committee Chair. She was honored with the Reva Allman Soror of the Year Award for the Southeast Region, achieved Life Member and Silver Star status, and most recently served as 2nd Anti-Basileus (Vice President), aspiring to one day lead as Basileus (President).

Auta was also a devoted member of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., Memphis Chapter, where she actively contributed to the development of young leaders and the enrichment of children’s lives.

Auta’s vibrant spirit extended beyond her professional and community service endeavors. She was an avid dancer, most recently performing with the AKA dance team at the national conference. A devoted Memphis Grizzlies fan, she rarely missed a game and even aspired to join the Grizzly Grannies dance team. She also enjoyed playing pickleball and tennis and was fiercely loyal to her favorite player, Jaren Jackson Jr., daring anyone to speak otherwise.

Auta found immense joy in gardening, seeing it as both a peaceful retreat and a way to nurture life. She took great pride in her vibrant flower beds and homegrown vegetables, often sharing her harvest with loved ones. Tending to her garden gave her a sense of serenity, and she believed that patience and care bring beauty to any season.

Auta’s greatest joy was her family. She leaves behind a legacy of love with her devoted husband, David Michael Toney III, and her four beloved sons, Edris Sidell Conley, Victor Isaac Walker, Alan Michael Toney and Jaxon David Toney.

She is also survived by her five sisters, Celeste Wilkins, Laquita Boykins, Michelle Boykins, Felicia (David) Tunstall, and Corliss Brown, and four brothers, Louis Boykins Jr., Ivory Boykins, Anthony Boykins, and Reginald Boykins.

She leaves behind a special bond with her first cousin, Nikki Garrett and special nieces, Arlisha Milam, Brianna Wilkins, and Courtney Owens, as well as cousin, Lillian Wright and cousin, Tevin Wright.

Auta’s loving and caring in-laws include Ralph Walker, Jr. and Alice Walker and their son Ralph Walker III (Gladys), Aarin Walker Chilton (Deondre), and Kimbra Toney Bernard (Marsean).

She also leaves behind a host of cherished relatives, friends, and sorority sisters who will forever treasure her warmth, brilliance, and unwavering support.

Auta’s life was one of passion, dedication, and profound impact. She was a loving wife, mother, sister, daughter, and friend whose memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

May her light continue to shine in the lives of those she touched.

The family has scheduled a Memorial Service of Celebration at Centenary United Methodist Church, 584 East McLemore, Memphis, TN 38016 on Friday, March 7th at 11am. A private interment will be held at Serenity Columbarium.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Auta’s honor to Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Beta Epsilon Omega Chapter’s Scholarship Fund or the Jack and Jill of America, Inc., Memphis Chapter.