Tonya Renee Ely, 58, of Chanute passed away on Saturday, Nov. 9,, 2024, at home surrounded by family after a long, courageous battle with cancer.
Tonya was born Oct. 12, 1966, in Chanute to Harley and Shirley Record. She graduated from Chanute High School in 1985 and shortly after married the love of her life, David Ely, on June 2, 1985. They shared 39 wonderful years. As Tonya and David began building a life together, they welcomed three children, Brian, Blair and Bethany. Tonya’s greatest passion in life was being a loving wife, mother, doting grandmother and dedicated friend.
For over 20 years, Tonya poured endless love into her day care children, nurturing each one as if they were her own, creating a safe and joyful space filled with warmth and care. Tonya was known for her strong will, determination, love for life and ability to light up a room. Tonya’s selflessness shined through in everything she did, always putting others’ needs ahead of her own with unwavering kindness and generosity.
Tonya is survived by her husband, David Ely, of the home; children, Brian Ely and his wife, Lisa, of Olathe, Blair Olson and her husband, Joe, of Chanute and Bethany Sizemore and her husband, Kurt, of Chanute; grandchildren, Cole and Jase Ely, Joely, Banks and Baker Olson, and Hayes and Harley Sizemore; her mother, Shirley Record; and siblings, Kevin Record, Alisa Almond and Deedra Perez and her husband, Mario; and numerous nieces and nephews she cherished and adored and best friends she considered sisters.
She was preceded in death by her father, Harley Record; a sister, Marsha Barnhart; and a brother, Steven Osburn.
A celebration of life will be announced at a later date. The family of Tonya has entrusted Countryside Funeral Home with arrangements.
