Tonya Bender Harper, aged 55, passed away unexpectedly at her home in Fuquay Varina, NC on Tuesday, May 16, 2023. Services will be held Monday, May 22, at 2pm at Thomas Funeral Home in Fuquay Varina. A viewing will commence at 1pm prior to the service. Burial will follow the service at Wake Chapel Memorial Gardens. All who knew and loved Tonya are welcome to join us in celebrating her life and saying our temporary goodbyes.

She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend, her sudden departure has left an irreplaceable void in our hearts. Raised in Lancaster, Ohio, Tonya's life was an adventurous journey. Her vibrant spirit led her to live for almost a decade in Toronto, Canada with her husband, Laurie Harper, before they moved to Centerville, Ohio to be close to their cherished grandbabies.

Tonya leaves behind a legacy of love and joy to those closest to her. Her devoted husband, Laurie Harper, was her partner in all things. Their bond, forged through shared experiences, love, and mutual respect, served as a testament to an enduring and profound love. Her parents, John and Helen, who have seen her grow and blossom into an exceptional woman, remain proud of their beloved daughter. Tonya's sister and lifelong friend, Lori Ann, shares a unique and cherished bond that only siblings can understand. The memories they created, the secrets they shared, and the love they had for each other were a beautiful testament to sisterhood. Her only son, Daniel, and his wife, Aleesha, brought her immense pride and joy and were a huge part of her daily life. Her grandchildren, Ellie, Noah, and Lilly. Ellie, being the first-born grandchild, held a special place in Tonya's heart. Tonya saw in Ellie the little daughter she never had; their bond was more than the typical grandmother-granddaughter relationship. Noah was her gardening buddy, and he was someone that loved new food as much as she did. Lilly kept her on her toes, but she was the last grandbaby she wanted so much.

Tonya was a devoted Christian whose faith was the cornerstone of her life. She was a daily reader of the Bible and strived to live as a true child of God and be always ready for when He called her home. Her faith was infectious, and she made it her mission to ensure that her family, particularly her grandchildren, knew about Jesus. It was her enduring faith and love for the Lord that brought her husband Laurie to Jesus, a testament to her spiritual devotion. Her family would be incomplete without mentioning her beloved feline companions, Peaches and Renley, whose playful antics added extra warmth to her life.

Her interests were many and diverse, reflecting her vibrant personality. Whether it was the joy of spotting the first robin of spring, her love for marching band music, or her quiet evenings spent with Laurie watching their favorite shows, each of these speaks volumes about the wonderful woman she was.

Her creativity found an outlet in journaling and doodling - these pieces of her spirit, captured on paper, will continue to bring comfort and smiles to those she has left behind.

Tonya often expressed that there was no need for sorrow upon her passing, as she knew she would be in her heavenly mansion, reunited with her grandmother Mary, cousin Donna and her furry friends that passed before her, and waiting for all those she held dear. In her memory, let us remember not just her passing, but also the way she lived - her passions, her beliefs, her love for her family, and her unwavering faith.

Tonya's faith was her compass, and she followed it all her days. Her place in Heaven gives us comfort in our grief. We know she is at peace, and she will be joyously waiting to welcome each one of us when our time comes.

Though she may not be with us physically anymore, the love she gave and the life she led will continue to inspire and guide us. Tonya Bender Harper, a faithful servant of God, a devoted family woman, and a passionate spirit, will be deeply missed.

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