Toni Kay Jenkins

Funeral services for Toni Kay Jenkins, 81, of Gilmer, Texas, will be held at 10:00 am, Saturday, August 23, 2025, at First Methodist Church with Rev. Matthew Smith officiating. Interment to follow at Woodlawn Memorial Park in Hughes Springs. The family will receive friends at 9:00 am prior to the service. Arrangements are under the direction of McWhorter Funeral Home. Toni was born on September 19, 1943, in Hughes Springs, Texas, to Arvin and Hazel Hawkins Traylor and passed from this life on August 20, 2025, in Tyler, Texas. She was a beacon of love and joy in the lives of all who knew her, earning the affectionate title of "MiMi" from her grandchildren. Toni dedicated her life to nurturing and educating young minds as a schoolteacher for over 25 years. Her passion for teaching was matched only by her love for her family and friends. She had an infectious smile that could brighten even the darkest days, and her laughter was truly a gift. As one dear friend beautifully put it, she was "pure sunshine." In her spare time, Toni found joy in playing bridge, where she formed lasting friendships and enjoyed countless hours of fun and camaraderie. She was known for her ability to bring people together, creating a warm and welcoming environment wherever she went. She leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and an unwavering spirit that will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her. Toni will be deeply missed but never forgotten, as her spirit lives on in the hearts of all who loved her. Those left to cherish her memory are her daughter, Jana McAlister; son, Jason Jenkins; grandchildren, Peyton Zizzi, Presley McAlister, Olivia McAlister, and Grayson Jenkins. She is preceded in death by her parents; twin sister, Donna Beasley; and her brother Glen Traylor. Pallbearers will be Billy Joe Williams, Todd Traylor, Cody Traylor, Dustin Traylor, Bryce Watkins, and T. J. Traylor. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to First United Methodist Church, P. O. Box 1132, Gilmer, TX 75644, reflecting her lifelong commitment to God, education, and community. Please visit Toni's online registration book at www.mcwhorterfh.com to leave a memory for the family.