Tonya Renee Shears

Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of our beloved daughter, mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, niece, cousin, friend. 

Tonya Renee Shears peacefully entered into eternal rest, Thursday, April 11, 2024, in the comfort of her home in Newport News, Virginia at age 50.  Her bright light and big heart left us too soon, but we will remember her warmth, love, and big, beautiful smile.

Born May 15, 1973, in Nansemond County, VA to the late Connie Lee Baker and Catherine Shears, she graduated with the class of 1991 from Surry County Public Schools. Tonya loved her hometown and always acclaimed that “Surry is Something Special”.

Upon graduation, Tonya moved to Newport News VA to further her education and career in Nursing. Her passion for people and the healthcare field led her to work at Eastern State Hospital for many years. Before her health declined, she enjoyed her time working at Dominion Village Assisted Living. Even with health challenges, Tonya never failed to give God the praise. She loved the Lord and was a mighty prayer warrior for herself and others. Her other passions were spending time with her family and cooking. While she could cook anything, her mac & cheese and pasta salad were a staple at the family gatherings.                                                                      

Tonya was preceded in death by her fathers, Connie Lee Baker and David Shears, Jr; maternal grandparents, Mervin and Iola Young; paternal grandparents, Martha and Thomas Shears; and godmother, Sylvia White.

Tonya leaves to cherish her memory to her two sons, Lorenzo Callis and Dreshawn Hayes of Newport News, Va whom she loved dearly. Her mother, Catherine Shears of Newport News Va. Three grandchildren, Amari, Khalil, and Markees and one upcoming bundle of joy Lela due in July 2024. One great aunt, Alma Rawlings of Surry, VA; aunts Sharon Eley and Delois Young of Newport News, VA. Francine Johnson (J.J.) and Mary Young of Surry, VA; Uncle-Mervin Young Jr., and Charles Lead, of Surry VA. Sisters, Kathy Wallace (Darrick), Torrey Shears and LaTisha Young, of Newport News, VA.; nieces-Tyesha, Tyjanae, Mia, London, Tadaija, and Prixie; nephews- Tyree, Tyyai, Damian and Desmond; and a host of devoted friends whom she loved. 

We take comfort in knowing she is in no pain and resting in God’s eternal arms.

Special thanks to those who provided around the clock comfort, care, and love to Tonya in her final days including family members listed above along with others, Keasha, Calvin, Nikkisha, Ramona, Lisa, London, and Sharronda.

There Are No Tears

There are no tears in heaven,

nor grief of any kind

I leave this final tear drop to those I left behind

Though absent from the body

 I’m present with the Lord

The joy of my salvation

is now my full reward.

Anonymous

On Friday, April 19, 2024, viewing will be held from 3-6pm at Shivers Funeral Chapel. On Saturday, April 20, 2024, A Celebration of Life will take place 11am at the chapel. Please keep the Shears family in your thoughts and prayers.