Tonya Patricia Brinson

Tonya Gilliam Brinson, 61, passed away peacefully on Friday morning, surrounded by loved ones.

Tonya was a strong-willed, tough woman who lived life in her own way. She loved her family deeply and treasured the time spent together, especially during family gatherings. Her children and grandchildren held a special place in her heart, and the memories made with them will be cherished for generations to come.

Tonya was a member of New Hope Church in Havana, Florida. She loved the simple things in life—country music, being outdoors, and spending time by the river. She also enjoyed riding on the motorcycle with her husband, Harry, sharing the open road and making memories together. She was never one to worry too much about dressing up, either—if given the choice, Tonya would take a good pair of blue jeans over a dress any day.

Family was at the heart of who Tonya was. She spoke often and fondly of her Granny Barfield, who was a beloved staple of the family and someone whose memory remained close to her heart throughout her life. Tonya carried that same love of family into her own life and treasured the gatherings, stories, and moments shared with those she loved.

She leaves behind her loving husband, Harry Brinson; her parents, Robert and Patricia Gilliam; her son, Forrest Quaney, and daughter-in-law, Karen Quaney; her granddaughters, Jessie, Amelia, and Kinsley Quaney; her son, Stevie Brinson, and daughter-in-law, Amy Brinson; her grandson, Kyle Brinson; her son, Richie Brinson; her brother, Robbie Gilliam; sister-in-law, Terri Gilliam; and her niece and nephew, Brylee and Harleigh Gilliam.

Tonya was preceded in death by her beloved daughter. While her family will miss her deeply, there is comfort in believing that Tonya is now reunited with the daughter she had to say goodbye to far too soon. May that reunion bring her peace and comfort.

Tonya leaves behind a lifetime of memories—family gatherings, motorcycle rides, country music, time spent outdoors, and countless moments that will be remembered by those who loved her. Her strong spirit and the place she held within her family will never be forgotten.

May she rest peacefully, and may her memory live on in the hearts of her family and loved ones.

Celebration of Life

A Celebration of Life for Tonya will be held on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at 1:00 p.m.

New Hope Christian Center

2725 Florida Georgia Hwy

Havana, FL 32333

Family and friends are invited to come together to celebrate Tonya's life, share memories, and honor the life she lived.