From Craig Morrisette

Dylan,

Let me preface what I have written: I don’t expect all of what I am writing to make sense to you now. Over time, when you are a little older, I hope you will read this and that it will help you understand more about what your mother treasured in her life and why. It is when you are older that a book like this will become precious and valuable to you.

I have chosen to write this for a few reasons. First, I think that as you grow older, you will have an ever-increasing desire to recall the character, heart, and memory of your mother. You are so young now and as we grow our memories tend to fade. Life rushes in and we find ourselves busy with many different responsibilities. This is why people take photographs; to aid them in recalling memories they desire to never lose. It was and is important to me, and the members of Integrity Church, to preserve the memory of your mother as best we could for your benefit. This book is intended to be a small collective testimony of the life changing impact Christ had on your mother and, as a result of that life-change, this book is also a testimony to the impact your mother had on us.

Secondly, I write this because I care about you. I care that you know truth. Not only the true personal character of your mother as testified by many who have written in this small book, but also the truth of the Gospel, which your mother believed and taught to you fervently. Truth is important. The Gospel is THE most important thing your mother wanted you to understand, not for her own peace of mind, but for your sake. Without hesitation, I firmly and unequivocally know that she wanted her life to be about pointing you to the Gospel. I do not mean that she wanted you to intellectually comprehend or theoretically understand the Gospel message or say some prayer. What I mean is that she desired that the Gospel would come alive in you. When I say “Gospel” this means that God would:

1. Cause you to recognize your sin.
(Psalm 51:5, Matthew 5:48, James 2:10, Romans 3:10-12, 3:23, 6:23, 1 John 1:8, Ephesians 2:1-3, 8-9, 1 John 3:4)

2. Cause you to genuinely repent from your sin, and admit that you deserve God's wrath for your personal sin.
(Isaiah 64:6, 2 Thess. 1:8-9, Hebrews 4:12-13, 10:31)

3. Cause you to believe, by faith, in the person and work of Christ on the cross was accomplished on your behalf.
(John 8:23, John 1:1-2,14, 10:30-33, 20:30-31, 8:46, 14:6, Mark 2:5)
(Romans 5:8, John 1:12, 3:16, 11:25-26, Acts 20:21, 10:43, Luke 24:47, Mark 1:15, 1 Cor. 15:3-6, Matthew 16:15)

4. Change your heart and to give you a new motivation to love and obey Jesus all the days of your life where you: fight sin, enjoy studying scripture, love the Church and God's people.
(2 Cor. 5:9, 14-15, 17, 13:5, 1 John 4:19-21, 5:3, 3:6, 9, Romans 6:17-18, 7:5-6, 1 Cor. 6:9-11, 1 Peter 1:8-9)

This is what she would have meant by "knowing the Gospel". I know this from personal conversations with your mother and I listened to her weep as she prayed for you to know Jesus and the Gospel personally, intimately and in a life-altering way.

Your mother loved Jesus. I don't mean that she read her Bible and that she went to church on Sundays. I mean that it was holistically evident in the way that she lived her life that she loved Jesus. People would say things to your mother all the time like this, "You are so different." What these people mean when they say that is not that she was weird, but that there was something different in her that was not in most people. People recognized Jesus IN her, but didn't know that He was in fact what they recognized.

Your mother loved Scripture. She came to our church small-group and was so hungry to know more about the character of God and the love of Jesus. She loved to study Scripture. Your mother fought sin in her heart. She was not content with sin she recognized in her life. She wanted to be more and more obedient to Jesus. She made changes in her life and yours, as it would help her best to fight different areas of sin in her heart and life. This is what I mean when I say that your Mother loved Jesus. Loving Jesus was not a religious experience or devotion for her, it WAS who she was, it defined her, it consumed her, it was very personal for her. She wanted to obey Jesus and live a life that was pleasing and honoring to Him. She understood that obeying Jesus WAS to love Jesus.

Your mother died days before she was to celebrate Easter, which is the day Christians celebrate the resurrection of Jesus from the grave. It is the most joyous annual celebration in the life of a Christian. I remember thinking of your mother that Sunday morning as I prepared to go to Church. I said to my wife, "Today, as we celebrate what was accomplished on our behalf and Tonya's through Jesus on the Cross this Easter weekend; while we get to thank Jesus for those scarred hands she gets to hold them." I firmly believe that today. Your mother is with Jesus this very moment. She is enjoying Him and experiencing the great joy of being a daughter of the King of all Kings. She worries about nothing. This is important for you to know with certainty. I know this because Jesus promises this to those who genuinely love Him. (Luke 23:43, Phil. 3:20-21)

When people die, sometimes we hear things like, “She is an angel looking down over us.” I realize that people mean this to comfort. They mean well and say things like that to you out of love for your mother, but I want you to know the truth. I want you to know the truth because truth is what scripture says and it is what your Mother believed. The truth is that your mother is not an angel and she is not looking down on you. The truth is much more beautiful. The truth, scripture tells us, is that God made people in the image of himself (Genesis 1:26-27) NOT in the image of angels. Angels existed before people. Angels serve God and have often served God by announcing his holiness (Isaiah 6:1-3) and being sent to declare the Good news of the Gospel (Luke 2:8-15). However, angels are not dead Christians. They are created beings different from humans made for the purpose of worshipping and glorifying God. Angels were made to serve God by serving man, but man was made to serve God directly. Jesus was sent to earth to die for the people whom God has chosen (Ephesians 1:4-12, 2:1-9, John 6:44, 65, 2 Thess. 2:13-14, Romans 8:29-30). Jesus did not die for the angels. He died for people like your mother, so that she could be with Jesus forever. Jesus paid the penalty for her sins. This truth makes Tonya more special to God than angels because His Son died for her. Jesus purchased Tonya with a great price. Jesus did not do this for angels. Angels do not sit with Jesus, only those for whom Jesus died sit with Him (Ephesians 2:6-7). Tonya sits with Jesus. Scripture tells us not to worship angels (Colossians 2:18). Scripture tells us that angels long to understand the Grace that has been poured out on those whom Jesus died for (1 Peter 1:12) and that those people will one day judge angels (1 Cor. 6:3). To go from being a Christian to becoming an angel would be similar to a job demotion in earthly terms. Christians are united to Jesus in a way angels never will be. You need to understand that your mother is not an angel. She was so loved by Jesus that he came to earth to purchase her eternal life with his very own death. She is fully and completely focused on the joy of being with Jesus. Jesus is that amazing. Jesus is that incredible. Nothing else competes for her full-attention because Jesus loves her that much and because Jesus is that worthy. She is safe. She is loved. She entertains joys unspeakable . . . for all of eternity. That should comfort you and that is true.

Aside from these critical and most important truths, there are only a few things that I wanted to share with you about your mother that I believe she would want you to know confidently and assuredly for the rest of your life.

One: That she loved you. This is as assured as the fact that gravity exists. There is no doubt. I had conversations with her as she wrestled with the reality of raising a son as a single mother. She wanted you to feel as loved and as secure as much as that depended on her. She made tremendous sacrifices personally, financially, and professionally for you to have her present and available as much as possible. Her life revolved around your needs. She didn’t force you to adapt to her life, she made every transition as painless for you as she was able. Never doubt her commitment and love that she had for you. She loved you more than any single person on the planet.

Two: I am praying that as you grow older that you will not be bitter towards God over your mother’s death. No one doubts you have pain and great sorrow over her death. This is expected and understandable. I cannot fully relate to those emotions. I admit that. My mother is not dead. However, scripture does not promise us painless lives here on earth. Scripture promises us an earthly life of meaning and purpose found in Jesus alone (John 10:10) and that the life after this will be painless (Rev. 21:4). Scripture tells us that as sinful people we don’t deserve anything good (Ephesians 2:1-3, Romans 3:10-12, 6:23, Psalm 51:5, 1 John 1:8, Hebrews 10:31). If life is happy and good and joyous then it is meant to speak to our heart that these good things come from God alone (Romans 2:4). If we experience suffering and heartache it is to remind us that we deserve no better and that Jesus is our only hope . . . not things, not money, not people, not pets, not our health, not family, not work or anything else on this earth (Romans 1:19-20, 32). All of that will eventually break-down, disappoint us, or die. Only Jesus can offer lasting hope, fulfillment, forgiveness, love, and peace (John 14:6). Jesus is who we need to run towards. No one is promised tomorrow (James 4:13-14). Who do you say that Jesus is (Matthew 16:15)? This is the most important question of your entire life. It was the most important question of your mother’s life. It is the most important question for anyone’s life. Learn about Jesus. Seek to know Him. Everything depends on how you answer that question (Hebrews 9:27)

I hope that when you read this, God will ignite a desire inside your heart to know Him. Feel free to dialogue with this Church, Integrity, when that time comes. There are many people who love you here. We have committed to pray for you and, if given the opportunity, to teach you about the God whom your mother deeply loved.

Lastly, I have included several pictures that I took of you and your mother. She was always supportive of my photography. She was so gracious with her words of encouragement. She told me she cried when she saw them for the first time. I hope these images will remind you of her and become greatly treasured by you.

May God shine His face upon you,
Craig

From Uncle Jason Sessoms

Dylan, 

You and Adele became little partners before either of you had even seen daylight. As you were in your Mommy's tummy at the same time that Adele was in your Aunt Beth's tummy. Even then, each time the family got together, you were both talked about as "Dylan and Adele". I have heard those two names said together thousands of times in the last 9 years. Beach trips (short and long), birthday parties, Sunday afternoons... "Dylan and Adele", that is what I heard over and over. I am thankful that Adele has you as a cousin. You have both taught each other the things cousins teach each other (like sticking a straw under your arm to make noises at the dinner table). 

Then there was the combination... "Beth and Tonya". That is one I have heard tons of time as well. But the only other combination of names I heard more was "Tonya and Dylan". Me, your aunt Beth and Adele love you so much... but let me tell you something... your mommy loved you like crazy. She loved Jesus more than you but that actually enabled her to love you even more than she could have on her own. And the thing she wanted more than anything for you, was for you to love Jesus. In fact, one of her favorite songs was "How He Loves" by David Crowder, and that is the message that your mom tried to surround you with. And that is the same message that I hope you know to be true and remind yourself of for the rest of your life. 

Dylan, I could type all day long telling you about the great memories I had with your mom. I could try to recount the hundreds of thousands of things she did for other people... but the truth is that I would wear out my keyboard even trying to scratch the surface. 

Your mom was not perfect, but she knew that Christ's righteousness covered her and presented her to God the Father "as if" she was perfect. And that was such a freeing truth in her life. I hope that you will seek to know that freeing truth in your life as you grow into a young man. 


I love you,
uncle jason

From Adele Sessoms

Dylan (Peep - the stuffed animal),

Remember making ginger bread houses at Christmas with our moms?  Our moms squeezed icing into our mouths!   One year Aunt Tonya and I ate so much candy our tongues turned black!  She was a good Aunt and I love her very much (plus you).







I love you Dylan always!  

Love,
Adele

From Aunt Beth Sessoms

Dylan,  

I think I should start by reminding you of how much your mom loved the Lord and how she mothered you in a way that showed that.  As I parent Adele I am always in awe of how your mom seemed to parent you with an ease that doesn't come naturally to most mothers.  I have always said that she was the best mother I knew!  Dylan, your mom loved you so very much and she wanted what was best for you.  She knew that what was best for you is a relationship with Christ.  So, I encourage you to read your Bible, spend time talking with God, tell him your joys and hurts... he will understand.  He loves you even more than your mom did (I know that is hard to believe but it is true).  

There are so many memories that I am not sure where to begin.  When we were little girls your mom and I would spend many hours playing in the woods, with dolls pretending to be mommies, dress up, riding our pony, Princess (who by the way wasn't very nice), playing board games like LIfe, and so much more.  Some of my favorite childhood memories with your mom were on Christmas Eve.  We would wait up ALL night long together so excited to see our presents on Christmas morning!  We LOVED, LOVED, LOVED playing in mud puddles.  We got so filthy!  We had such a fun childhood together.  She was a great sister.



Your mom and I found out we were pregnant about the same time.  We were so excited to share pregnancy and motherhood together.  That is a priceless gift to me.  We watched our bellies grow together, we watched you and Adele take your first steps together, say your first word, start the first day of kindergarten, and so so much more.



I remember one year while we were on our yearly beach vacation with Grammy and Papa (with the horses) I overheard you and your mom reading your bible together in your room.  Continue to study God's word as she taught you.  One of your mom's favorite things to do at beach was to look for shells.  She would go out onto the beach late at night and early in the morning to scour the beach for shells.  Last year she hit the jackpot and found all those beautiful whelk shells.  She was thrilled! 



Then there was the summer we all went to Ocracoke Island because you and Adele were in our cousin's wedding.   Your mom took so many pictures of you and Adele all dressed up.  She sure loved taking pictures.   We all slept in that tiny room together... but we LOVED it!  I remember your mom, Uncle Jason, and I watching so proudly as you and Adele danced together with the others in the wedding.  

Remember Christmas of 2010 when we all were snowed in at Grammy and Papa's.  We all built snowmen... and your mom's had a HUGE bottom and a little bitty head!  She was such fun!  You guys brought Jingles and he got to play with grammy and papa's dogs and our dog, Sandy.  And don't forget that is same Christmas that Aunt Vicki taught us all how to knit!  This is also the Christmas that you wrote your mom the beautiful note as a Christmas present and she treasured it so much.  What a wonderful and thoughtful son you have been.



I could go on all day about the memories that you two have shared with us.  I cherish each and every one.  We have so many memories to look back on and smile.  I pray that you do just that.  I look forward to making many more memories together and watching you grow.

But I think that the one thing I want you to remember... well two things.  Number one is that your mom loved the Lord and it was her desire to parent you in a way that showed that.  It was her desire that you grow into a Godly man and spend your days on this Earth serving and honoring Christ.  Your Uncle Jason and I are here should you ever want to talk with us about that.  Number two... WOW did she love you!   I can't tell you how many times she told me of her love for you and most days she didn't even have to say it, I could just see it in her eyes as she looked at you.  Dylan, you made her so happy.  She was in love with being your mother.  She said you were the BEST thing God had ever given her.  She was right!  You brought her unspeakable and undefinable joy.  



The only thing that could bring your mom more joy than being with you is to be in the presence of her Savior.  That is where she is now Dylan.  I know it is hard but we must rest and trust in that hope.  There will be days when the hurt is so great, but the hope in Christ is so much greater.  Run to him with your hurt, joys, question, struggles, and everything else.  That is what your mom did and would encourage you to do.  Your Uncle Jason, Adele, and I are always here for you... ALWAYS.  We love you so much, so very much.  

I love you sweet boy,

Aunt Beth

From the Brown Family

Dylan,

We love you like you are part of our family and you and your mom will be part of us forever.  Caitlin and Madison love playing with you; they look up to you as a role model and a leader.  Your mother has instilled that in you. While the reason that you have hung out with us after school is sad, we have been very HAPPY to spend time with you.  I hope you never lose your cheerful spirit, your love of life, your silly grin, and your crazy sayings that made your mom (and me) laugh so hard.

Your mother loved you more than words can express. She sacrificed much to raise you into a strong, intelligent, Christian man. You were ALWAYS her top priority. Always honor her by leading a purpose driven, honorable, Christian life. For me personally, your mom was the kind of lady that made me want to be a better person.  She taught me how to love my children a little more, take a little more time to simply breathe and laugh and appreciate life.  She made me a better mother and for that I will be eternally grateful.  Caitlin and Madison love how she always said "dang" and "Bless your heart." Your mom always gave me coupons for stuff she thought I might buy, samples of new foods she bought, and most of all she gave me a dependable friendship that I miss greatly.  

You and your mom have been a blessing in our lives, a blessing that will continue to live on in spirits, thoughts, and inspired actions for the rest of our lives.

We love you.
Seth, Joanna, Caitlin, and Madison Brown

From Those Who Attended Tonya's Funeral

At Tonya's funeral those who wanted to write a note for this blog or to Dylan were given some paper and a pen to do so. These are the notes that were collected.

Tonya, Dylan, and I used to go walking every night after work. Tonya and I would walk and Dylan would ride his bike or scooter. We laughed together and would enjoy our time hanging out with Dylan. Tonya helped me stay positive during a very difficult time in my life. I will never forget her spirit!

Rachel Schubert
Portland, Oregon


Tonya - Beautiful girl with an even more beautiful soul. You’re loved so much!
Cendry


Dylan,
I loved your mama so much. Like I told you, I lost my mom the same way! Now God has two very special angels and I want you to know they are always with us. Watch for the butterflies and pennies sweetheart.
Loving you always,
Mrs. Faye Bogle


Dylan and Mrs. Annie,
I just want you both to know that you mean the world to me and my family. Your family will forever be in our hearts, Mama always thought alot of Tonya and now they are once again joined together in heaven. Listen to the song by Beverly Mitchell called “Angel”. If you need, I have the CD.
Loving you aways,
Faye Brown Bogle


Dear, sweet, Dylan -
I love you and always will. Your momma made me a better person. Your momma is alive in my heart and always will be. I cherish our memories all together an look forward to more with you.
XOXO
Aunt Tiffany
(I am always here for you little guy.)


Dearest Dylan -
Your momma loved you more than life itself! Nothing will make her happier than watching you grow up in into a handsome, Christ-loving man, following your Savior in everything you do, every decision you make. She will be right beside you in every step your life takes you saying “That’s my little man, my wonderful gift from God, I love him so much and am so very proud of him.”
We love you so much dear one, dearest Dylan.
All our love,
Grandpa J and Grandma Kathy

From Bailey's

Dylan,
We thought it was important that you remember this. It was special to your mother.

Bailey's fine Jewelry ran a marketing promotion close to last Christmas where anyone could write to their business describing why they loved Bailey's Jewelry. If Bailey's chose your particular letter, they would publish the letter in an ad, do a photoshoot of you and give you $500. Tonya decided to write a letter and she won. Below is a picture of the Ad and what the ad reads.



The ad reads:

"Each bead will be with me forever, because each comes from him." - Tonya

"The first Christmas with just the two of us, Dylan was upset that there were no presents for me under the tree. So his grandmother took him shopping, and Carol at Bailey's helped him pick out some Pandora Beads and a bracelet. Christmas morning, you'd think the first thing a child would say is 'I want to open my presents,' But he insisted I open mine first. Now when he walks into Bailey's, Carol and the whole staff know him. He's very proud of it, and I'm very proud of Him. It's become a beautiful tradition."

From Kim Morrisette

Dylan,
My heart still aches when I think about what happened on April 22, 2011. I remember the phone call informing me of the wreck and the plea to pray for you and your mama. I prayed for you both throughout the rest of that day and into the early hours of the morning. With sobs and tears I laid on my bed and waited for the phone to ring with an update. I gave praise to the Lord that your mama, Tonya, was a follower of Christ and that regardless of what happened she would be safe in His arms. As I waited and prayed memories flooded my mind. The memories that I have of your mama are surrounded by her love of Christ, her love for others and the JOY that filled your home because of His redeeming love.

The first time I met y'all was when our church was meeting in the BCM. Your uncle Jason was leading worship that morning and y'all came to Integrity to visit since he and Beth were there. I knew your aunt and uncle from high school so there was an instant connection. They introduced me to Tonya and we hit it off right away. Y'all started coming to our life group and I LOVED getting to know her. She was such a fun woman and she wasn't afraid to share her story with others. She was hungry to study God's word and to grow. We started spending time with y'all outside of church and my kids loved both of you. Caleb has always loved playing with you and you were so kind and gracious to enjoy him even though he was almost three years younger. Tonya was like an aunt to Lydia and often times I thought of her like my own sister. Lydia affectionately referred to as "Tonja" and I think she secretly liked it:) Your mama loved Lydia to pieces. Lydia still tells me a few times a week that she misses Tonya and wishes she could give her another hug. Your mama and I had some of the best conversations that girlfriends could have . . . not just about clothes, photography or cooking. We talked about our relationships with Christ and our desire to live to honor Him daily in the midst of life. She loved you second only to Jesus and her heart longed to honor Him as she raised you.

We did both enjoy photography and going out to shoot together. She always had a natural eye with the camera and you were her favorite subject to photograph. I remember going to Sundays in the Park which were always fun no matter who was playing. I remember going on a girl date with her and Lydia while you, Caleb, Craig and Jake went to an ECU football game. I remember spending one New Year's Eve with her and Heidi Bell. We went to the Hilton to hear Matt's band ring in the New Year. We laughed alot together that night. You and my kids stayed at our house with my mama. We had a sleepover that night and enjoyed a slow morning together the next day. I will never forget the Christmas party two years ago for Integrity Church. Your mama and I sang karaoke and we were both scared to death! We sang "Lean on Me". We sang it loud and we sang it proud . . . and we both had fun doing it. It was the perfect song for our friendship at that time. We also had a Christmas baking night at my house that year. Remember that? Y'all were on your way here and your car ran out of gas? I had to come and bring you our gas can so you could make it to the gas station. We laughed so hard after it happened. You and my kids helped roll the peanut butter balls and dipped them in chocolate. It was a MESS but they sure were delicious. We also made Christmas cookies, peppermint bark, oreo balls and the list goes on. Your mama was always an awesome cook! She made the B.E.S.T. baked spaghetti I've ever tasted. I think it's the cup of sugar she added to the sauce;) One of my favorite memories of you and your mama was last summer when my dad was really sick. After a very long day at work y'all went to visit him at the hospital. She said y'all had a good time with him. She went a second day that week on her lunch break to visit. It meant the world to me. I didn't ask anyone to go and visit him - y'all just did it because you loved me. I'm crying now as I think back to the many acts of love and service that your mama gave to others. They were often quiet acts that were not done for show or recognition. Her heart genuinely loved others and wanted to serve them. I learned a lot by watching her sacrifice personal time and energy in the midst of being a single mom. I miss her dearly and wish we could have had one last conversation. Your mom was a special friend in my life. I loved her and I love you. I know that you admired her and will always think back on the many wonderful times you had together - just the two of you. May you always be drawn back to her love for Jesus and seek to know Him the way she did. I'll pray for you for years to come and I can't wait to hear where you are and what you are doing twenty years from now. If you're ever in Greenville and want a hot meal, a warm bed or some family time - please remember Kim and Craig Morrisette. We love you!

From Jake Sherron

Dylan, 

You're an important part of my life.  I’m thankful for the opportunity your mother gave me to spend time with you.  I consider your mother an excellent friend of mine.  I’m honored to have known her, and along with my wife Mitzi, will miss her greatly.  The memories we have with her bring smiles to our faces because she truly was a gift from God. 

Your mother has been a rare jewel in my life.  There aren’t many who’ve shown me such love and attention.  She was remarkable and took such care to invest in in my family’s life, that at times, it made us laugh.  In fact, while in college, Tonya made the observation that I had only four outfits.  Your mom, naturally caring for me, purchased new clothes for me to wear. The two of you (you were always by her side smiling) walked into church together with a bag full of brand new clothes for me!  She’d surprise me all the time with stuff like this!  

I felt safe around your mother because I knew she wanted the best for me and looked for ways to straighten me up.  She carried herself like this around most people.  She was an excellent mother to you and she was considered a motherly figure by many people. 

Your mother loved her church, Integrity.  You both came to Integrity in 2008.  Your mom was hungry for the word of God and eager to get involved in the church family.  Her personality was amazing and we all immediately were drawn to her.  She became a valuable member of the church because of who she was. She was excellent friends with most of the women and loved to learn about parenting. She was a very teachable person, and loved to learn from the Bible. She was trustworthy, we could trust her with anything.  The leaders could give her a responsibility and rest be assured that it would be done on time and with excellence. Your mother was a leader and a hard worker.  She took her responsibilities very seriously.  Most of all, we are going to miss your mother because she was a great friend to everyone.  As a church family, we will miss her deeply, but we know we will see her again because of what Christ did for her on the Cross. 

When people think of your mom, they immediately think of how great of a mother she was and the incredible love she showed you!  Dylan, you are her sweet peach, her life, her dinner date, her everything. I am very proud of you. You wouldn't be who you are without the love your mother has shown you.  I want you to consider how much your mom loved you.  And why she loved you. She loved you more than the average mom because Christ had loved her and had given her a new heart.  Her desire for you was that you’d grow into a man who loves Jesus and loves other people.  Your young, and my hope is you never forget the wonderful mom you had.  She would teach you to learn the Gospel and be transformed by God’s grace through Jesus, and out of your love for God, to learn from His word and love others as yourself because these are things she did because she she knew God had forgiven her through Christ. 

My prayer for you is that you would not grow angry towards God but would run to Him for He is the only place to run in difficult times.  You can miss your mother, it’s okay.  You can cry over her.  It’s okay to cry over someone so special.  She was a remarkable woman who was loved by Jesus, and because of that... loved others and especially you... Dylan.

The Bible says that angels stretch their necks out in order to gaze into the grace of God that he has shown believers.  Angels are jealous over what your mother is experiencing. She is in heaven with God.  Heaven is wonderful, not because of streets of gold or pearly gates.  Those things become boring after a while.  Heaven is heaven because God is there.  He is more beautiful than anything we could ever imagine.  He has taken Tonya to experience His presence forever, away from all sickness, sin, and frustration.  She is in paradise.  She is with God.  Your mom wants you to know that Jesus is better than life itself.  

Dylan, you’ll always be an important part of my life and I’m looking forward to seeing you grow into a man who understands his need of God’s transforming grace through His Son Jesus.  I will always miss your mom and I’m thankful to have known such a remarkable lady.  

Enjoy His Grace, 
Jake Sherron 

From Rachel Fortney

Dylan:

I don’t have any special pictures of your momma to share, but I think that is okay…there are so many beautiful special pictures of your momma, and of your momma and you together! She loved you so much, and made so many special times and special memories for the two of you to share.

I have only been at Integrity Church for a few months, so I didn’t get to know Tonya as well as some people, but she blessed me so much in the short time I knew her. She was so kind and welcoming to me as a visitor and a new part of Integrity. I looked for her every week, knowing I could count on a warm hello and hug.

Your momma was one of the most alive people I have ever met: spunky, friendly, joyful, smart, sweet, caring, generous….and it was obvious that her life came from Jesus. I was reminded of this again as I looked at the slideshow during her funeral of all the pictures; I couldn’t help but notice the difference in her face. In the pictures from the last few years, your momma’s face just shone with a vibrant life that could only come from Jesus. Jesus makes us truly alive, and your momma was one of the most beautiful and inspiring examples of that truth that I have ever seen.

Rachel Fortney

From Amanda Meyer

Dear Dylan, 

Your mom, where to start? She was one of the loveliest women I have ever met, inside and out. She was one of the very first people I met when I started coming to Integrity Church and I immediately fell in love with her sweet southern accent. She was so welcoming and inviting to every single person that she came into contact with. Her love for Christ was so evident and second only to her love for Jesus, was her love for you. My, how she loved you! I've met few women in my life who have loved the way she did. She taught you about Jesus, prayed for you whole heartedly and gushed over you when you were and weren't around. She was so proud of you!  All of this, you know first hand because you were the object of her affection and so precious to her in every way.
 
I remember going to see Grady sing one night at Moe's. Your mom asked me if you and her could come sit with me? I was so thrilled that you both decided to come. It was one of the sweetest times I shared with you and your mom. It was so fun sitting and talking with her and learning about her life and how much she loved you, how much she loved Jesus and how much she loved Integrity Church.
 
Your mom will be missed so much. She is loved by so many and her testimony of love, faith and perseverance in Christ will cary on. Grady and I will continue to pray for you and your family. You are so loved by Jesus, and so many around you. It is our prayer that you experience this unchanging, unconditional love from Jesus that your mom knew so well.
 
We love you Dylan!
Amanda and Grady

From Tiffany Karr

Hello sweet Dylan,

Your mother and I spent the last few years really getting to know eachother. I had the pleasure of meeting your mother through your father. We met in Florida, do you remember that trip? Jennifer and I flew in to meet everyone from California, and to meet you and your mom for the first time. You were bouncing bed to bed in the hotel room as we chatted and got to know one another. When you dad deployed to Iraq, I had the unique pleasure of serving your mother as her key volunteer spouse. It was during this deployment that your mother and I developed a special, unique friendship that will last a lifetime.

That summer, in July, you and your mother came to California to visit me. We all had such a great time! Do you remember the ocean, getting buried in the sand, and the huge play area set up for us! Your mother was introduced to all the other spouses of the military men your father knew. It was love at first sight! Seriously, every woman she met was so pleased to meet your mother and she developed many friendships from this trip. That October you and your mother came back to California to welcome your father home from Iraq. We carved pumpkins and we really had a nice time together. Your mother was so patient with me, who had no kids yet! In showing me the gentle way she mothered you. It was Tonya I called first to tell her when I got pregnant, and your mother screamed and was so joyous for me, the way a sister would. She is so special.

The last time I saw you two was last Easter. Levi, my son, was born and the two of you came down to meet him! You treated him like your little brother, and you would tell your mother things you planned on teaching Levi! It was such a fun trip, and so neat to see the way you interacted with Levi. We went to the zoo and explored St Louis in the sticky heat. Your mother taught me how to coupon! She had such passion for things in life. She would light up when she talked about you, and had a sparkle in her eye when she watched you. She was so proud of you and so proud to be your mother! I think many of us can agree that the way she parented you was the way we all wish to parent. You two traveled a lot recently, you both went to New York and D.C. among other places. I enjoyed the way your mother shared her love for life and for you through the pictures she took. You two have so much love, and such a connection.

I do not know why these things happen Dylan. I have to rely on the promise of the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the promise that we will all be together again as my strength. You are her peach, always will be her peach, and she will always be your momma. I love you very much Dylan, and want you to know that I am only a phone call away. I would love for you to still teach Levi things, and visit us as often as you like. I knew I met a friend for life when I met your mother and what an honor to have met her and you, you are my friend for life too sweet Dylan.

Justin, Tiffany, and Levi Karr

From Emily Bellis

Dylan,
I remember the first time Jackson (my husband) and I met your mom. We both started attending Integrity Church around the same time and we met over at the Webster’s for a church event dinner. The first thing I noticed about her was her vibrant smile and love of life. She had a personality that was bigger than life and every time I saw her I was reminded of the joy she had in Christ.

I also remember when she was planning your trip to NYC. Jackson and I had traveled there a couple of months prior and she was trying to make your trip so special and wanted to know all the spots to visit. I remember her telling me about how you both watched the movie “BIG” so that you could see the “Big Piano” that you would later go on to see at the FAO Schwarz toy story in NYC. I know God planned this trip for just the two of you – a time for you both to bond and spend quality time together. She was so proud of you and always lit up when she spoke of you. She will be deeply missed but know that “For those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”

Love,
Emily Bellis

From Mitzi Sherron

Dylan,

I knew your mom as a believer. Her life as a Christian was marked by her joy that she carried with her everywhere. I know that this joy was given to her by our great, merciful God showing her kindness. Her life was also marked by selfless service to the body of Christ, the church. She served me in several ways over the three years I knew her.

One of my favorite memories was last year about this time. I was engaged to be married to Jake and your mom offered to help me address the invitations to our wedding. She had pretty cursive writing and so I invited her over to my apartment and we sat and talked for several hours addressing one envelope after another and stuffing the invitations. We laughed and joked and talked about my preparations for marriage and the life of a certain Mr. Dylan Watt.

While we were working our way towards carpal tunnel syndrome, you and Jake left to hang out for a little while. Your birthday had just passed and so Jake took you to Toys R Us to pick out a birthday present. I don’t remember what you came back with but Jake called it a “poof ball” and we think it was a stuffed animal. Anyway, you guys stayed in the store playing with and inspecting toys until they announced over the PA that the store would be closing. You came back so excited saying it was “the best night ever” and your mom talked about your excitement for weeks! She always loved it when you enjoyed hanging out with the men in the church.

A couple months later, you both traveled to Claremont, NC to attend our wedding. You were going to hand out the programs at the ceremony.

Before we were ever engaged, I remember your mom reciting to me a conversation that you and she had. I don’t recall how it started, but you said, “Mom, Jake’s not ever going to get married!”. Your mom said “Dylan, I think that Jake and Mitzi might get married”. And you told her, “Well, if they do, I’m going to be in that wedding!” And so, you were.

At the rehearsal dinner, your mom and you sat at a table with my mentor and friend, Christy Trouille, and her family. They hadn’t met before but Christy told me later that she loved your mom and enjoyed talking with her about you and Marcee (Christy’s daughter). Marcee was just a year younger than you. Christy and your mom kept in touch via email and Facebook ever since. Your mom could meet someone and almost immediately find something she had in common with them or something interesting about them to engage in conversation about. She was quite a networker!

Perhaps one of the greatest ways your mom has served me, is by teaching me how to coupon. She would talk about how much money she would save on groceries and invite us over for steaks when she got them on sale. When we got married we were close to broke and so I asked her to teach me this great craft. She showed me how she would cut, fold, and organize her coupons into baseball card sleeves. She told me which newspapers to buy to get the most coupons. She took me to Harris Teeter and taught me the tricks of the trade as we went sale item by sale item matching coupons to sales. She even had the “master of coupons”, a lady with a couponing blog, come to Greenville and host classes. I would call your mom when I had some great shopping experiences and tell her how much I saved. She would be more excited than I was!

Dylan, your mom, Tonya, was a humble lady who loved the Lord! She wanted you to grow up with a knowledge of the Bible and she prayed that God would give you a heart that loved and desired Him. This was the greatest wish she could have for you.

I pray that you will take your sweet memories of your mom and store them up in your heart, that you praise God for the gift he gave you in your mom and that you would meet with her again in the presence of Christ!

With love,
Mitzi Sherron



Our Wedding:

From Joey and Deanna Snead

Dylan,

I too, like others, did not have the privilege of knowing your mom all too long, since we have only been attending Integrity church for a few months permanently, but I have to concur with what others have said about your mom representing Jesus, our Lord and Saviour, as well as one can this side of Glory. Back in November of 2010, on a visit to Integrity, with my daughter, something awesome happened. After service, your mom followed us out to our car, and really reached out to me in a way that is all too uncommon in most churches today. Your mom, with you beside her, asked several questions about myself, my daughter, my family and took the extra five minutes that makes a visitor, to unfamiliar surroundings, feel at home. It was a very important gesture to me, as I found her spirit overwhelmingly one of love and joy. A few weeks later, as we were telling a few friends of God's decision for us to make Integrity our home church, one of my wife's friends proclaimed that we had to get to know "Tonya Watt, because she is awesome", and that you "would know her by her smile and sweet spirit". It wasn't until a few weeks later, that I made the connection on who Tonya was. My wife met her within one week, and a friendship, like many of the others who are writing to you, was established with my wife, Deanna, as well. You see Dylan, your mom's testimony of her love for Jesus was not confined to just Integrity church. She touched a lot of lives, and it appears that she has shaped yours as well. We will be praying, that when times get tough for you Dylan, that you will call on Jesus, and he will provide the comfort that you need, and that only He can provide. Dylan, remember above all else that God loves you.

Joey and Deanna Snead

From Sarah Sparrow

Dear Dylan,
I know that right now you must be hurting more than I could imagine. I am praying that Jesus will hold your heart and guide you through your sadness.

Your mama was such a blessing to our church and to me personally. She was always willing to help; she served others with a passion that I love and admire. The last time that I saw your mom she was helping me with my senior research project. Without even letting me finish my request that she be one of my study subjects, with her sparkling eyes and willing heart she said, "Tell me what to do!" A few weeks later, she beckoned me out to your car after church so she could return to me the survey. That's just the kind of person she was. She was organized, yes, but she was first and foremost loving to people. And she loved until the very end. Second only to Jesus, she loved YOU, Dylan. She loved you so much.

There are so many things that don't make sense in life; this is one of those times for all of us. I know that it may never make sense to you, but I hope and pray that you find Jesus in the middle of this sadness - He is the only one who can rescue us, Dylan. Your mom knew that, and she is with Jesus today. I can't wait to see her again, buddy.

Love,
Sarah Sparrow

From Mary Paramore

Dylan,
One Christmas your mom knew of a work friend who was having some pretty tough money troubles. This was during difficult times for a lot of people and your Mom was struggling to pay big bills of her own. But she came by with an envelope and secretly gave this other mom some money to spend on her kids for Christmas. She never wanted anyone to know, and I kept her secret. But now I want you to know that she was the rare kind of person who gave to everyone and not just out of her surplus. She gave to others knowing that with you in her life she had more than she had ever hoped for. Her love will always be with you and you will continue to make her proud. She was once the proudest mom on earth…now she is the proudest mom in heaven, I’m sure.

Mary Paramore

From Miranda Newman

To Dylan,

Your mom was one of the first women at Integrity that caught my eye...on facebook. I kept seeing her comment or post on peoples' Facebook walls and wondering who is Tonya Watt? It wasn't long before I met your mom and all her commenting made sense. I didn't know your mom for long or very well, but I knew her enough to experience the gifts she had been given to serve and love others. Tonya was always so encouraging and humble...she was also a little sassy, which I loved! I helped you and your mother clean the Webster's house and I left that day thinking how sweet it was to see how you loved each other. I told her, "Wow, Dylan is so well-behaved, it is so sweet of him to come and help clean." She said something to the effect of, he doesn't have a choice (haha). While we cleaned that day, she kept talking about your upcoming trip to NYC, she was so excited! It was evident how much she loved you and enjoyed spending time with you. I think it is so cool how you two took so many trips together and the desire she had to discover and explore cities with you. I hope that those memories will remain with you for many many years! Although, I only knew your mother a short time, she was an inspiration to me. She embodied Christ's sacrificial and all-consuming love in her service to others. I am blessed to have met both you and your mother and I hope that I can continue to know you and become a part of your Integrity Church family.

Miranda Newman

From Matt Eiban

Dylan,

I don't know how to start a letter of this kind, so I will just start by saying that you had an awesome mother for 9 years! Your mom was one of the fiercest yet most compassionate women I have ever met. She lived her life with passion...passion first for her Lord and Savior, Jesus; passion secondly for the love of her life - you; passion thirdly for her church. Dylan, the Tonya that I knew gave her all in every situation. She never backed down from a challenge, she always speared an opportunity to serve head on. She always wanted to better other people's lives by giving of herself.

I had the pleasure of serving side by side with your mom as a volunteer leader at Integrity Church. I wish that I could say that I have always had as good an attitude toward serving as your mom did. There were many times when she would listen to me in my distress, in my complaints about various situations, and encourage me with her words and actions to continue serving whole heartedly. She was a friend to me, a help to me, a blessing to me. I will truly miss your mother, my friend, for the remainder of my time here on this earth.

The best thing about your mom, Dylan, is that she loved Jesus. We know beyond a shadow of a doubt that your mom is with Him right now. She is currently in the presence of the creator of the universe, she is worshipping Him, she is living fully in Him. Hold tight to this truth! She knew and wanted you to know that Jesus is Life.

I am here for you! If you ever (EVER) need anything, you can call me.
Matt Eiban (Mr. Matt)

From Ben Sparrow

Dylan,

It has been fun to get to know you and your mom over the last couple of years. I first met Tonya when I came to help you guys serve food at the homeless shelter in Greenville. I remember that you and I poured juice for everyone. Seeing Tonya serving at the shelter was just one way that I saw her loving people by serving them. She also served people by greeting them at church, by being interested in them, and by building them up with her words. She had a way of making me feel good just by talking to me for a few minutes.

Your mom served people because Jesus was a servant on Earth.

Even though Jesus was God, he lived like a nobody on earth. He was a servant of the whole world by giving up his life for sins. He was God's servant because he always obeyed God.

Your mom served people because Jesus did.

You are very special to me, Dylan, and I will always remember you.

Love,
Ben Sparrow

From Emily Bolinger

Dear Dylan,
Lance (my husband) and I only knew your mother for a few months, but in many ways, she symbolizes the best traits of our wonderful church family (Integrity Church).  She was one of the first people to introduce herself to us when we moved to Greenville and started coming to Integrity, and she was the first person to hug me, which was something I desperately needed.  Love was engraved on every fiber of her being, and she touched our hearts from simply meeting us, and sharing her sparkling smile.  I did a women's book study with your mom, and every time she mentioned you (which was very often!), she beamed with joy.  It was obvious that having you as her son was her greatest blessing, and she honored that blessing by being constantly grateful that she got to share her life with you.  I hope that if I'm a mother one day, others will see me have a love for my children like your mother had for you.  In her heart, you were second only to her love for Christ, and there is no better model of an amazing mother and woman of God.  I know that God has great things in store for your life.  You are in my prayers, and I am so grateful that I got to meet your mother. 
 
Emily Bollinger

From Sarah Menck

Dear Dylan,
 
Do you remember that day we spent in Seattle together? We went to a 3-D movie and to the top of the space needle. I remember that your Mom wanted flowers from Pike Place Market, and of course she had to get some shoppin' in before the day was done. :) That was such a fun day, and it's one of the happiest memories I have of your sweet Mom. I miss her a lot, and I bet you miss her even more. Do you know what she used to tell me, when I was sad or upset about something? She would say, "Sarah, God is sovereign, and you've just got to trust His plan for your life!" So that's what I think about now, when I get sad that your Mama had to leave us so soon. She isn't really gone, though, is she? She's looking down from Heaven and I'll bet she's giving you sugar all the time, even though you can't really feel it. Sugar for her Sweet Peach.
 
I love you so much, Dylan.
 
Love and hugs, Auntie Sarah


At the Pike Place Market:


At the Seattle Space Needle:


More often, Tonya was behind the camera. These are pictures I cherish that she took:

From Tess Powell

Dear Dylan, 
I have known you and your mom for many years.  While I only got to see you a couple of times a year I have been able to keep in touch through your Aunt Beth, Uncle Jason and cousin Adele.  Your mom was always fun to be around, had a wonderful smile, laugh, and funny comments.  Your mom was an amazing photographer.  She recently took pictures of our family and did a beautiful job.  I loved spending that time with her that day.  Below is a photo I took of the two of you at the beach when you were 4 or 5.  I love how tenderly you are looking at each other.  I love how much she loved the beach and took you there many times.  She loved you so much.  She took time to do some special things with you.  Special trips to New York, Washington DC and Washington State.   My absolute favorite tradition the 2 of you had was creating her special pandora bracelet. I love how you picked out ones that had special meaning for the things that reminded you of your mom.  She cherished that bracelet because each bead represented something you picked out especially for her.  Every time I think about those memories my heart is warmed.  Your mom was a very special lady who loved the Lord and loved you.  

Tess Powell

From Abby Whaley

Dylan,
 
You have a very special mother. When you think of your Mother, I hope you will always know that you can never "lose" your Mother.  She will forever be a part of who you are, and she is not "lost".  God chose her to be your Mother, and I can understand why.  She has helped to make you the wonderful, special, loving person that you are.  Know that she was so proud to be your Mom!  I hope and pray that you will strive to serve others and Love others the way that Jesus Loves you....just like your Mom.  She will live on in Heaven for eternity and in the hearts and memories of so many people.  Hold on to your memories with her and cherish them.  They are a gift that cannot be taken away.  May the saddness fade, and the joy that she left, fill your heart and push you forward to all God has in store for you.  What a gift you have that your Mother taught you about Jesus and through Him, you can see her again!  I rejoice in that truth, as I am anxious to see her again as well.  Even through this time of grief, God loves you unconditionally and will never leave you.  Hold on to His promises.
 
Love,
Abby Whaley

From Jes Tugwell

Dylan,

I have met few Women in my life that compare to your Mother.  The qualities that your Mother bestowed were precious & beautiful to me.  She loved Jesus & served Him so well with her humble, servants heart.  She loved You well by honoring Him in how she raised you, supported you, protected you, nurtured you.  Your life will forever be changed by the unconditional love that she showed you.  My prayer for you sweetheart, is that you will hold tight to her memory and that you will run fast and hard after the Lord all the days of your life. He is the ONLY one that can fill your empty heart.  When you have days that you can't breathe because you miss her so much, I promise you I am here.  I've been there & I know what it feels like.  Your Mother's life has touched my heart so deeply and I am so grateful that I called her, my friend.  Dylan never forget how special you are to The Tugwell Family. We love you so very much!

Love,
Ms. Jes

From Jessie Ewell

Dear sweet Dylan,
 
Your mom was one of the first people I meet at Integrity Church. And I have to say that the one thing I remember most about her was her SMILE! When she smiled, you would automatically feel accepted and at ease.  She definitely knew how to be a true friend and she had a heart full of love for others!  I thank God that He allowed me to meet her, I have learned how to better serve others through your mother, and I am so grateful to her for that!
 
I also learned from your sweet mom, how to be a loving mother, when my time comes to have children. The way she lead you, loved you, taught you, and adored you; truly touched my heart! You were the love of her life and she constantly wanted to always be making your life better.  The one thing I hope you never forget is that she loved YOU so much!
 
I know that through you she will never be forgotten. I am extremely sorry for your loss, Dylan. But, I know that God has you in His hands and that He loves you! I love you too, Dylan. And I will always be praying for you! 
 
Jessie Ewell

From Jack Tye

Dear Dylan,
I'm very sorry you lost your mom she was a really sweet woman. And I am going to send you a lot of pictures to let you know I care about you. And I hope you like them.

Here they are:

Bowser Jr.:


Megamind:




Your Friend Jack Charles Tye

From Sandy Shallow

Dear Dylan,

Really all I knew of your mom was how very much she loved you! I met her on the Upward Flag Football team field, and she spoke of how happy she was to have you in her life. You were everything to her! Her great smile and twinkling eyes exuded joy when she spoke to me about you. For even someone who spoke to your mom only a few times it was unmistakable how much she loved you and how you were priority number one in her life. She was very content because of the love and joy you gave her each day! She was so proud of you!

I know all of the life lessons she gave you through the years will follow you as you grow. Keep all of your mom's words of wisdom close to your heart, and remember she will always love you and will celebrate with every victory you experience in this life! Because of our gift of eternal life through Jesus you will one day see your mom again. Until then enjoy every moment just like you know your mom would want you to!

Love,
Sandy Shallow
Jack and Harrison's mom

From Janell Bullock

Dylan,

Your mama was such a special person. She always had the right thing to say and do to make you feel better. She gave me great advice when I needed it most. She loved you so so much and I am so glad that you got to go to NYC and DC this past year, just you and her. She was such a special person and she will be greatly missed. She will now be your angel watching over you from Heaven.

Janell Bullock

From Tracy Garrow

Dear Dylan,

The first time I met your mama was at Scot and Anna Webster's house for life group, little did I know that this particular night would be the turning point for my life. I listened to people I had never met tell about their day to day struggles and really do "Life together." Your mama stood out because of her country accent :-) her beautiful smile and her big amazing heart. She really could light up a room just by entering it. Dylan in the recent days i've learned even more about your mama through watching the enormous about of comments from people on facebook from the lives she touched, the biggest thing I have learned is that you were her Peach and that she loved you with every fiber of her being. She lived her life as a servant of God and for you as a joyful mama. She talked about you all the time, you always seemed to be on her mind. Even the way she said your name was saturated with love and compassion. Dylan, I know right now things don't seem to make a whole lot of sense, but remember that all of Integrity is right behind you every step of the way, you need only ask. Integrity loved your mama and you! We are all praying and rooting for you! God Bless you in all you do.

Tracy Garrow

From Ryan and Katy Biagini

Dylan,

I worked with your mom in organizing volunteers for our church. She was unbelievably sweet, always served others before herself, and loved you VERY much! I loved talking to your mom about gardening. She loved spending time with you in the backyard... planting flowers, watching and waiting for butterflies to come to your butterfly bush, and taking pictures of you and all your hard work. I have never met a mother who loved her son more than your mom loved you. She was so proud to be your mom, proud of who you were, and was so grateful that you were her son. You were her best friend.

Life will never be the same without her, but you are not alone. When you feel weak, 'He will fight for you, you need only to be still' (Exodus 14:14). When you feel sad, 'The Lord heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds' (Psalm 147:3). When you feel angry, 'The Lord your God is with you, He is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing' (Zephaniah 3:17). When you are scared, 'Cast all your anxieties upon Him, because he cares for you' (1 Peter 5:7).

The Lord will always be with you, Dylan. The whole Integrity family loves you and will continue to pray for you, your loss, and your sweet future. The Lord will do GREAT things through you one day.

Katy (& Ryan) Biagini

From Hunter and Jenna Little

Dear Dylan,

There are so many memories that come to mind when I think of your mom. However, I will never forget the first time Hunter and I came to Integrity church, she was the greeter. This was not only one of your mom's gifts but also a sweet coincidence. Prior to Integrity, I had attended Christ's Church for awhile and so had yall. It had been a few years since I had last seen her, but as we entered the doors of Integrity, she was the first thing we saw. She was smiling, gave me and Hunter the warmest welcome and she even remembered my name. She blew me away with her hospitality and her gift of making me feel loved. This memory was the first of many hugs, sweet conversations and many smiles shared with your mom. Besides the way she loved her Savior, she made it well known how much she loved you. I loved watching her tell stories of you because she would light up. She was an amazing mother and truly cherrished the gift of motherhood. Know that her ability to love well was a true testimony of her faith and God's work in her life. She will be missed but we all look forward to seeing her again!

Sinerely,

Jenna & Hunter Little

From Nicole Jacobs

Dylan,
The first time I got to talk to your Mom was at Integrity's Womens' Bible Study. I was so overwhelmed by all the women that came to this Bible study b/c I really didn’t know any of them. I felt out of place & uncomfortable. The group was so big that we ended up getting into smaller groups. Well, your Mom was my “small group leader” and she was an awesome leader. She made me feel so comfortable, as if I had known her forever. I felt comfortable talking and opening up in the group b/c of your Mom. Your Mom really touched my life in a special way. I love her.

I also remember when your Mom was planning a trip to New York for you & her. She wanted to make the trip special for you so she asked for help with planning it. I called your Mom to let her know I wanted to help her. I helped her with looking up great hotels for you two. However, your Mom ended up finding a great hotel by herself. She emailed me what she found & I was just so happy for you all. The pictures from your trip were amazing so I know it was special for you.

It’s hard to explain how much your Mom touched my life in a short time. I don’t know if she knew just how much she touched my life. She was just a beautiful woman with such a warm heart. She talked about you all the time and everyone knew that you meant everything to her. I am just so glad that God allowed me to meet Tonya. I love your Mom so much and I know I will see her in heaven one day!

With Love,
Nicole Jacobs

From Mark Melton

Dylan,
I remember the first time I met you and your mother. I came over to help clean the Webster's house when they were out of town and your mom was running the show. She really cared about the people at Integrity and I saw this from our first encounter to our last. I had great respect for how organized and efficient she was in dealing with her responsibilities at church. However what impressed me the most and gave me great admiration for your mother is how she loved and cared for you. Your mom was clearly passionate about whatever she was involved with. I will miss her.

Sincerely,
Mark Melton

From Victoria Asbury

Dear Dylan,

The one thing I remember the most about your amazing mother is how much she loved you! I did not know her that well and I haven’t had the pleasure of meeting you but through the status’ she put on facebook there was no way for people not to know you meant everything to her. Almost every status she posted was about you and how proud she was of you! I loved reading her status each day and getting an update of something you did that just blew her mind, she knew how lucky she was to have a son like you, and I know, you know, how lucky you were to have a mother like her! My favorite status about you was “I am so unbelievably grateful to GOD for the gift and privilege of being Dylan's mom. This afternoon he folded and put away a load of laundry as well as a few other house chores to allow me the time to finish reading for my Women's Bible study. Even better, he done it joyfully.” You see your mom couldn’t have asked for a better gift from God than to be your mother, she loved how you were always so sweet and funny and how much you loved her. Your mom will always be watching over you and when you laugh she’ll laugh, when you cry she’ll cry, and when you smile she’ll smile. She will be filled with joy to continue to watch you grow into the fine young man she always knew you’d be! She was and still is so proud of you and the sweet, handsome, and loving boy you have become! I am praying for you Dylan, don’t ever give up hope, as you once said “Jesus conquered the grave!”

With love,
Victoria Asbury

From Caleb & Lydia

Dylan,
I'm so sad. I love you. I loved your mama too. I remember when we went to the skating rink with your mom, my mom, Lydia and the Webster kids. It was fun riding in your car with the top down. I remember it smelled so good and Tonya said it was a watermelon smell. We had fun skating that day. I also remember your mom keeping us so my parents could do some work. I always loved going to your house! Remember that time y'all spent the night with us? You slept on the top bunk and we talked in the dark. Your mom was a good greeter at church. I hope to still see you at church and in Sunday school. We have prayed a lot for you. I miss you.
Caleb Morrisette (Age 5)





Dylan,
I'm so sorry your mom died. My whole family is going to miss her. That's okay because she is in heaven. Have fun with your grandma. I hope I'm going to have some fun with you. Tonya always loved my shoes, my clothes and my hairbows. I'm going to miss her hugs and having fun with her. She loved me and I loved her.
Lydia Morrisette (Age 4)