Tonya Temple Forester

Tonya Temple Forester, born August 6,1968, passed away on December 26, 2025. Tonya leaves behind a legacy forged through creativity, and strength. An artist at her core, Tonya expressed herself through ironwork-shaping raw metal into meaningful, lasting pieces that reflected both her talent and her spirit.
Through ironwork, she transformed strength into elegance and hardness into grace. Each piece she created carried intention, emotion, and craftsmanship, standing as a testament to her vision, and dedication. Her work was more than art; it was an extension of who she was-resilient and uniquely creative.
Tonya was preceded in death by her husband Jimmy, her mother, Marsha Whitten Temple, and her father, John Cobb Temple.
She is survived by her brother, Chris Temple; two beloved nephews Kevin and Cobb, half siblings Jay and Carrie, and numerous aunts, cousins, friends, and loved ones.
She inspired others to see beauty in unexpected places and encouraged creativity through her own example. Her presence brought comfort, and her strength left a lasting impression on all who knew her. Although Tonya's earthly journey has ended, her legacy endures in the ironwork she leaves behind and in the lives she touched.
A graveside celebration of Tonya's life will be held Saturday, January 3rd at Rosemont Gardens Memorial Park in Jackson MS at 11:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in remembrance of Tonya to Cheshire Abbey in honor of her beloved dogs Mable and Sadie.