Tonya Lynn Bates

Tonya Lynn Bates, a beloved daughter, mother, sister, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 10, 2025, in Plano, Texas. She was born on June 13, 1969, in her cherished hometown of Terrell, Texas, where her beautiful life first began

Born to C. Joe Roach and Rita Thorson, Tonya was a proud graduate of Terrell High School, where she shared classrooms and memories with classmates, including Jamie Foxx. With a heart full of compassion and a calming presence, Tonya built a career as a service advisor. Her kindness, honesty, and gentle spirit touched everyone she met. She had a way of making people feel heard, cared for, and genuinely valued.

Tonya's vibrant personality lit up every room she entered. She was loving, loyal, kind-hearted, and ever-optimistic. Her life was a steady source of comfort and unconditional love to all who knew her. As a young woman, she rode proudly as a rodeo queen and barrel racer, her smile and laugh always leaving a lasting impression. Her happiest moments were spent near the ocean—her soul place—where the rhythm of the waves brought her peace like nothing else could.

She found joy in the simple things: sitting outside on the patio, feeling the sun on her face, and watching time slow down. Most of all, Tonya cherished every moment spent with her family—her greatest love and pride.

She is survived by her loving mother, Rita Thorson; her children, Tiffany Bates, TJ Bates, Cody McDonald, and Justin McDonald; her precious grandchildren, Kamryn Goldsberry, Ryan Smith, Averie Doswell, Layla McDonald, Carter Johnson, Souleen Johnson, and Levi McDonald. She is also survived by her sister, Ashlee Rivera and her family, Jonathan Rivera, Elijah, and Kadance Rivera; her brother, Chad Roach and his wife Erika, and his daughter Kacie Roach; her sister, Chelsie Roach and her children, Lennon and Jude. She leaves behind her cherished aunt and uncle, Karen and Tony Franklin, her partner of 20 + years, John Hargis, and extended family who loved her deeply.

Tonya was preceded in death by her father, C. Joe Roach; stepmother, Judy Pirtte Roach; grandparents Lewis and Iris Evans, Jessie Roach, and Robert Roach; and uncles James Evans and Dennis Roach.

Tonya's legacy is one of warmth, laughter, and unwavering love. She will be deeply missed, but the memories she gave us will remain forever in our hearts.