Ms. Tonya Zeneé Alford

Tonya Zeneé Alford was born on May 5, 1969 to the late Annie Mae McQueen Alford and Willie Fred Alford in Lumberton, NC. She was raised in Rowland, NC and gave her life to Christ at an early age at Cedar Grove United Methodist Church, now New Hope United Methodist Church. She sung on the choir, coordinated children/youth programs and served on the kitchen committee over the years. Tonya graduated with the Class of 1987 from South Robeson High School where she was active in cheerleading and student government. She loved the Class of 1987 and assisted with coordinating the SRHS Tailgate, even during her illness. After graduation, Tonya attended Pembroke State University (UNCP) and later begin a career of 20 plus years with the City of Lumberton. There she served as the Special Events Coordinator and eventually as the Director of the Pine Street Senior Center, finding her niche through her love for children as well as senior citizens. She served on a plethora of committees in Robeson County (Healthy Robeson, Safety & Crime Reduction, LRCOG Senior Games, Sharing and Caring Senior Citizens Program, etc.). She was also active in her hometown of Rowland, NC, with the Rowland Chamber of Commerce, the Beautification and the Festival Committees. Following retirement, Tonya spent most of her time with her sisters and extended family. Tonya was a loving, caring, strong, and beautiful person. When you encountered her, she always welcomed you with a smile, open arms, and was always willing to help everyone. She truly had a heart of gold. Her passion for life was infectious, and she had a unique ability to make everyone around her feel valued and loved. Tonya cherished her family and friends deeply, and her absence will be felt profoundly in our lives. Tonya departed this life on Wednesday, December 25, 2024 In Durham, NC at Duke University Medical Center. She was preceded in death by her parents Willie Fred and Annie Mae Alford, and nephew Khalil Alford. Her memory will be cherished and forever remembered by her three sisters: Pamela (Lee) Campbell, Patricia McCallum (Delton), and Jackie Davis (Billy Ray) all of Rowland, NC; one special niece/daughter: Dana Peterson (James) of Savannah, GA; one uncle: Larry Baker of Columbus, Ohio; Eleven nieces and nephews: Tomas Alford, Mekale McCallum, Jacquanna Dickey, Damien McCallum (Julie) , Satara Campbell, Armon McCallum (Brittany), Chiniqua Campbell, Shannon McPhaul (Jamel), Dominique Davis, and Desmond Davis; ten great nieces and nephews: Ryasia, Armya, Brayden, Aubriana, Cali, Kyrie, Amari, Dominique, Lelani, and Chandler; four godchildren: Quaezhawn, Demario, De’Andraya, and Nekoda; and a host of special cousins, relatives, and friends.

Ms. Tonya Zeneé Alford

May 5, 1969 - December 25, 2024