Tonja Hughes

Obituary For Tonja Hughes

Tonja Lynette Hughes was born September 26, 1966, in Memphis, Tennessee, to the late Tommy and Vivian Ann Epps Hughes. She was a mother to the apple of her eye and her reason for living and enjoying life, Tonyhia Vivienne Hughes.

Tonja’s educational pursuits began at Stafford Elementary, continued on at Hamilton High School, followed by a stint at The University of Tennessee at Martin, with completion of her Associate’s Degree at Anthem Career College. She enjoyed her extracurricular activities of being a majorette and flag girl at Hamilton Middle and High Schools, so much, that it led her to sponsor and direct the Dazzling Glamourettes Majorette Squad for over 30 years.

Tonja had a diverse work history. She began as a group counselor with the Memphis Park Commission, was director and sponsor of the Dazzling Glamourettes Majorette Squad and was a Patient Account Specialist for Stoneriver Pharmacy Solutions. After receiving her certification from Anthem Career College, Tonja was a Pharmacy Technician for Rite-Aid Pharmacy.

She accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior at a very young age. She served in many capacities at Avery Chapel A.M.E., which was pastored by Reverend Miller Peace. Later in life, she joined Vision Temple Ecumenical Church and Outreach, Inc. Tonja did not just join Vision Temple, she served faithfully as Christian Education Director, Coordinator of Pastor’s Assistance Program and the Youth and Senior Ministries. Under the leadership and guidance of Pastor Pearl Lurry, Tonja not only found a pastor, but a genuine friend and another mother.

Tonja was loved and admired by many. To celebrate the memories of her life, Tonja leaves her devoted daughter, Tonyhia Vivienne Hughes; her fiancé, Terry Rayford; siblings, Reginald Hughes and Stephanie Black; three aunts, Gwendolyn Epps Keith, Shirley Epps Belle, and Inez Epps Siggers (Mark); other aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins, special cousins/siblings, Kim Houston (Angelo), Keith Hughes, and Voris Keith (Cindy), two god-sisters, Michelle Randolph (Paul) and Quincy Ann Hughes; neighbors and friends.

The family will receive friends Friday, August 11, 2023 from 4:00pm-6:00pm. Funeral service will be Saturday, August 12, 2023 at 10:00am both will be held at RS Lewis & Sons 2944 Walnut Grove Road, Memphis, TN 38111