Latonya Renee Marie "Ms. Cookie" McLemore

Latonya Renee Marie McLemore was born on February 19, 1971, in Seattle, WA to Theo Murphy and Jeffery Williams Sr. Latonya grew up in Seattle, WA where she met and married Aaron McLemore. Latonya was one of 6 children: Darrell Murphy, Darlene Brown (Daniel), Edward Brazier, Jeffrey Williams Jr, and Bryce Williams.

Latonya attended Rainier Beach High School where she ran track and became a star athlete for her impeccable speed. This sparked from her pre-teen years of Track and Field and attending the Hershey Meet of Champions where she placed 3rd in her state.

Latonya would then go on to attend and graduate Medical School to become a MA and Phlebotomist. Her sister would soon have her first niece, T'Kesha aka niecy poo, which would ignite her love for children. This passion for children would lead her to become the owner of a prominent childcare; Smiling Faces Daycare, that she owned and successfully operated for 25+ years. Her daycare babies loved her affectionately, referring to her as "Ms. Cookie". Latonya loved giving back and helping children, she spent years donating, guiding youth in her community, and eventually launched No Child Left Behind. This program was her passion and provided school supplies and clothing to children and teens in need.

Latonya enjoyed talking with friends and family, playing Spades and boardgames, enjoying delicious meals, and competing in Family Feud. Latonya delighted in spending time with her loved ones, journaling, shopping, and reading the word. Latonya was a fun loving, generous spirit who was full of life.

Latonya was blessed with 11 children Andrea (LeeLee) Colson, Aaron McLemore Jr, Asjeah McLemore, Amari McLemore, Amijah McLemore, Andre' McLemore, Avion McLemore, Angel McLemore, Malachi McLemore, Malik McLemore, and stepdaughter Tierra McLemore. The loving grandmother of 5 grandchildren Shamil Colson Jr, Jaiden Terwilleger, Shakur Ash, Ace McLemore, E'Jhaun Ash.

Latonya grew up in church where she was a member and secretary at Mt. Pleasant Baptist church for 15 years. As she grew in Christ, this led her to become a member of Christ the King Bible Fellowship, where she rededicated her life.

Latonya impacted the lives of many with her big personality, no nonsense attitude, and a heart of gold. Latonya was the heart of her family and did not play about her children, her nieces and nephews, or her siblings. She was a ride or die.

Latonya leaves to cherish her memory her husband, her father and stepmother Linda, her precious children, her siblings, and a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Latonya is Preceded in death by her Mother Theo Murphy, son Andre' McLemore, grandmother Laura Turner, Grandfather Samuel Turner Sr, grandson Shakur Ash, Uncle's Samuel Turner Jr and Jerry Turner.

Latonya was a joyful and affectionate spirit and devoted servant of God who loved her family dearly. Her remarkable dedication to family and community is unparalleled and she will be missed by all who knew her.