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Tonya's obituary

Tonya Davis, affectionately known as Pooch was born September 18, 1970, in Harlem, NY to Annie Ruth Davis and Leroy Brown. She spent her early childhood navigating NYC and enjoying all the benefits of growing up in such a progressive city. She attended parochial school at St. Charles Borromeo Elementary through 8th grade and then briefly attended St. Mary's High School. 

Whether Pooch was hanging with friends "on the stoop", looking for the next block party, or spending the summer with family in South Carolina, her larger-than-life personality stood out. She always took center stage and because she was unapologetically her authentic self, people naturally gravitated to her.

In July 1987, Pooch relocated to Phoenix, AZ, and attended Maryvale High School. The move to Phoenix was a huge transition from life in NY, however, Pooch's entrepreneurial spirit seized the opportunity and created The Overweight Pooch Brand. From spitting lyrics with her unique style at local talent shows to a record deal with A&M Records in 1990, Pooch made a name for herself locally and nationally. Working on several collaborations with various artists and organizations like Ghetto Government, she helped carve a path for others and demonstrated why she earned the title “Female Preacher”.

Pooch Married Nathaniel Taylor on May 28th, 1999. They were blessed with three children. She was a devoted mother who selflessly demonstrated her love of family and friends, often opening her home & heart to those in need.

Pooch returned to school and earned an Associate Degree from Phoenix College in 2017. After years of building clientele and growing a successful braiding business, she opened her shop, Taylor Made Braids in 2019 and patented an essential CBD Oil. She was a true businesswoman at heart. Pooch passed from this life to eternal life on September 23, 2021. We will miss her immensely.

Tonya “Big Pooch” Davis was preceded in death by her husband Nathaniel Taylor; Stepfather, Muhammad Muhaymin Sr.; Brother, Muhammad Muhaymin Jr.; Maternal and Paternal Grandparents.

She leaves to cherish her memory her Son, Nathaniel Taylor-Muhaymin; Daughter, Nate’Sha Taylor-Muhaymin; Son, Nasanté Taylor-Muhaymin; Mother, Annie Ruth Davis; Father, Leroy Brown (Wife: Mozell); Godmother, Mudda’Queen; Siblings, Darren Brown, Tarnisha Brown Boone, Mussallina Muhaymin, Mercedes Cooper, Zarinah Tavares; Grandchildren, Jamiah Jones, Nah’Sir “Sookie” Taylor, Jae’Den Jekhi Taylor; and a nation of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and devoted and caring friends. 

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Recent contributions

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Amy Nunez
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Memories & condolences

Happy birthday sis 
Happy birthday sis 
Happy birthday sis 
I miss you lady you always had my hair right 
I miss you lady you always had my hair right 
I miss you lady you always had my hair right 

Pooch, my condolences to your children, family, & friends! I will forever cherish your memory! Thank you so much for al…

Pooch, my condolences to your children, family, & friends! I will forever cherish your memory! Than…

Pooch, my condolences to your children, family, & friends! I wil…

I was devastated when I heard the news of Pooch's passing. I had just spoke to her for a couple of hours after she left…

I was devastated when I heard the news of Pooch's passing. I had just spoke to her for a couple of …

I was devastated when I heard the news of Pooch's passing. I had…

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Tonya Davis