TONIA WILLIS

TONIA NANNETTE WILLIS YOUNG

Sept. 10, 1959 Mar. 8, 2023

It is with very heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Tonia Nannette Willis Young, 63, of El Centro, on March 8, 2023. She was born on September 10, 1959, in El Centro, CA. She was the eldest daughter of Henry Tony and Mildred Lorraine Willis. Tonia attended Washington Elementary School, Wilson Jr. High School, Central Union High School, studied at Imperial Valley College, and took computer training with JEI of El Centro. She worked at El Centro Union High School as an ASB and athletics clerk. She found great joy in interacting with the children of former classmates and neighborhood friends. She would often consider herself the student's guardian angel. With a great sense of humor, she kept most of the kids in line by telling them, I know your parents.

From early youth and into adulthood, she was actively involved in a variety of community activities that included the Black and White Angels drill team, a team member in both girls and women's softball leagues, and an avid bowler with the IV Bowling League. She was a die-hard Raiders fan.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Henry Tony and Mildred Lorraine Willis; grandparents, L.B. and Stella McGee; and her husband, Billy Joe Young.

She is survived by her sister, Traci L. Willis; nephew, Damare Lawson; great niece, Ariel Lawson; great nephew, Rashad Lawson; aunts; and numerous cousins and friends.

A Memorial service will be held on April 6, 2023, 10 a.m. at Sweet Home Missionary Baptist Church, 120 E. Holt Ave., in El Centro. Officiated by Rev. Avery Dees. Repast immediately following service.