Tanisha Latonya Smith

TANISHA LATONYA SMITH affectionately known as Tonya by her family was born July 8, 1983, in Baltimore, Maryland to Larry L. Smith Sr. and Cathy D. Woodfork. From this union, she was the third child and baby sister of two sons, Larry Jr. and Tavon (Tony). In 1992, the family welcomed twins Dominick and Dominica. After battling a long-term illness, she entered eternal rest on Friday, October 4, 2024. Her life was a testament of strength and resilience. Tonya accepted Christ at the young age of five and was baptized at the age of eight. She joined Beth-El Temple Church of Christ in 2017 where she was a dedicated member of the Mother’s Board, Women’s Ministry, Hospitality/Nurse’s Unit, Youth & Young Adult Ministry, and Ecclesia Ministry. Tonya received her education at Junior Academy, Father Charles A. Hall and All Saints Catholic Schools during grade school and junior high where she enjoyed being on the Cheer Team. She received her high school diploma from Forest Park Senior High School and was a dedicated member of the Junior Reserve Officers Training Corp (JROTC) Program. After High School, she furthered her education at Baltimore City Community College where she studied Business Administration. Tonya worked and maintained steady employment in the retail industry in Baltimore City for over 20 years. At the age of 22, she welcomed her first daughter Jayla into the world, as Jordan and Jalia would soon follow. Tonya enjoyed being a mom and loved her girls deeply with every fiber of her being. She enjoyed the simple things in life with her daughters like spending quality time with them, playing dress up, hosting at home fashion shows, and visiting the Inner Harbor. Birthdays and holidays were extra special! Although soft spoken, Tonya was wise beyond her years and would often call you out by giving great advice to help maintain your integrity and keep you on the right path. Tonya was genuinely thoughtful, kindhearted, and caring. Her big bright eyes would light up any room! She will be sincerely missed by everyone who knew her. She leaves to cherish her memory: three loving daughters, Jayla, Jordan, and Jalia Diamond; her devoted parents, Larry L. Smith Sr, and Cathy D. Woodfork; her protective big brothers, Larry Jr. (Chanel), Tavon, aka Tony (Tecola); younger siblings, Dominick and Dominica (Daniel); three nephews, Terrance (Dominique), Larry III, and Caiden; six nieces, Imoni (proceeded in death), Tyla, Aaliyah, Talia, Loren, and Taylor; 3 great-nieces, Tailyn, Soleya, and Yara, her Beth-El Temple Church Family; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Tributes

Tanisha Latonya Smith

July 8, 1983 - October 4, 2024