Tonya Renee Watkins-Smiley

Tonya Renee Watkins-Smiley, loving sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of family and friends who were grateful for her life and spirit.

Tonya was the daughter of the late John Watkins Sr. and Jessie Mae Watkins Hopkins. She was born on October 28, 1966, at Jay County Hospital in Portland, Indiana. From an early age, Tonya displayed strength, determination, and grace, qualities that remained with her throughout her life.

She was a standout track and field athlete at Jay County High School and continued her athletic journey at Purdue University, where her dedication and discipline were evident. Tonya later embraced the world of fashion as an accomplished model throughout Indiana. Alongside her best friend, Denice Broadnax, she was part of a powerful and inspiring sisterhood of women who modeled together and gathered annually to uplift one another, give back to the community, and empower others.

Professionally, Tonya was a former employee of Sallie Mae Corporation and later worked as a licensed insurance agent, serving others with excellence and care.

Tonya shared a meaningful chapter of her life with Michael Smiley. They were married on June 8, 1996. She leaves to honor her memory her loving siblings Wanda Watkins, Linda Jones and husband Clayton, John Watkins Jr. and wife Pam, Mark Watkins, and Glenda Watkins.

She is also remembered by her nieces and nephews April Tyler and husband James, Christopher-Clayton Jones and wife Cindy, Alicia Vanholten, Keegan Watkins and wife Sierra, Stephon Watkins, Terence Wafer and wife Shatia, Marquise Watkins, and Letina Harris and husband Armand.

Her legacy continues through her stepchildren Denise L. Thomas, Michael A. Smiley Jr. and wife Janell, Brandi N. Greenidge and husband Kareem, Candi N. Smiley, and Andre L. Smiley and wife Alicia.

Tonya was a devoted grandmother to Davont’e Z. Thomas, Cednetra L. Thomas, Journee Williams, Harmony Williams, Natalya Smiley, Victoria Smiley, Leyla Smiley, Alena Smiley, Alivia Smiley, Christian Greenidge, Briella Greenidge, Ella Smiley, Amarie Smiley, and Drake Smiley.

She also leaves behind extended family members, great nieces and great nephews, and many dear friends who held her close in their hearts.

Tonya’s strength, grace, and unwavering spirit inspired many, and her love touched everyone who knew her.

Celebration of Life A Celebration of Life Open House will be held on Saturday, January 31, 2026, from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM at Nest Carmel, located at 40 Executive Drive, Suite D, Carmel, Indiana 46032. Guests are welcome to come and go as they share memories, offer comfort, and honor Tonya’s life. Attire is requested to be refined and polished.