Tonya Bernice (Armstead) Houston "Tonya B" was born on August 31, 1962 in
Richmond, IN. She was Loved and raised by her parents Ellis Armstead Jr, Louise Patterson,
and Alice Walker. She dedicated her life to Christ at an early age and continued to serve the
Lord throughout her life. She had recently renewed her dedication shortly before her passing at
Book of Acts Church in St. Roberts, MO.
Tonya attended Richmond and Baltimore Public Schools, where she excelled
academically. She graduated in 1980 from Richmond High School. Tonya was an Honors'
Student at both Ozark Technical Community College and Missouri State University in
Springfield, MO, where she passionately studied Agriculture.
Tonya was a devoted and loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and sister.
She loved her family and made connections with each family member individually. She will be
most remembered for her giving heart, vivacious personality, and mindful soul. We cherish her
memory by recalling the creative poems she gave us and the beautiful gospel praises that we all
sang together. Tonya was very crafty and enjoyed making her girls unique gifts. She cherished
her grandkids and always looked forward to spending quality time with them. She also enjoyed
spending time in prayer and studying her Bible.
Tonya B. Houston leaves to cherish her memories: three daughters, Jonova L. Robinson
& her husband, Danny, LaToyia L. Armstead & her significant other, Antonio Davis, and Lisa N.
Beasley; one son, Christopher A. McCoy; three step-daughters, Tujuana, Tori, and Angela
Houston; one step-son, Brian Houston Jr; two honorary daughters, Christian and Zenia Lee;
twelve grandchildren; Stausha, Danny Jr., Imani, LowLa, Christopher Jr, DeMetrius, Aatyis,
Tre'Leise, Kingston, Rayce, Alisia, Zailon; ten step-grandchildren; one great-grandson, Ruben;
seven sisters, Darlene, Delores, Etta, Evon, Mary, Cynthia, and Robin; nieces, nephews, and
many other relatives.
She was preceded in death by: Ellis Armstead Jr {father}, Louise (Rankin) Patterson
{mother}, Alice Walker {stepmother}, Vondell Patterson {brother}, Morris Armstead Sr {brother}
Ellis Armstead III {brother}, Linda Kirtz {sister}, and Laverne Wilkerson {sister}.
You will be deeply and truly missed. You are one of a kind, and we all love you,
Your Family