Tonya Helen Day

On February 5th, 1960, she married Thomas Gary Day in Kaysville, Utah which was later solemnized in the Salt Lake Temple. Together, they raised three children: Cori Shaw (Steve) of South Jordan, Utah, Nathan Day (Annette) of St. George, Utah, and Stephanie Sparrow (Kevin) of Clearfield, Utah.  

Her professional journey led her from 12 years at Hill Air Force Base to a successful 22-year tenure at the Internal Revenue Service, where she managed and trained many employees. Tonya earned numerous accolades for her outstanding work, a testament to her commitment to fairness and adherence to the rules, often encapsulated in her favorite phrases, "Don't go in the out door”, “Follow the arrows” and “Those double yellow lines are there for a reason.”  Cori and Stephanie attribute their strong work ethic and fierce independence to their mom.

Tonya was known for her boundless love for her family and her zest for life.  She delighted in playing games with her children and grandchildren, especially enjoying the “Farming Game” and competitive rounds of “Hand and Foot.” Her love for the outdoors led her to cherish her property in Uintah Lands, where she and Gary had a trailer.  While she enjoyed many short trips with loved ones, her adventurous spirit shone through during longer escapades, including a memorable fishing trip to Alaska and a thrilling 5-day whitewater river trip down the Desolation and Gray canyons, a testament to her love for nature and adventure.

Tonya's fondness for Halloween was legendary.  She adored dressing up as Glenda the witch every year, delighting her co-workers and visiting her children at their schools.  She and Gary also spent many years square dancing with the Golden Spikes and participating together in multiple bowing leagues.  

Throughout her life, Tonya used her creative gifts to bless the lives of family and friends.  Her children were thrilled and anticipated the whimsical scenes she would paint on the picture windows of their homes during Halloween and Christmas. She was a beautiful seamstress spending hours perfecting dresses for her daughters and her skillful crocheting produced cherished quilts for many.  

Tonya was a lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in various capacities, including as a primary teacher, counselor in an MIA presidency, and a Sunday School and Relief Society teacher.  She loved reading the scriptures and seeking their applications in her life.

After retiring to St. George with her husband, Gary, they loved and enjoyed their home off River Road, surrounded by wonderful neighbors.  She relished the company of many dear friends, hosting lively parties, and engaging in weekly card games filled with laughter and competitive fun.

After the passing of her husband, in 2018, Tonya lived with her son Nathan, who lovingly cared for her until her transition to The Meadows assisted living center in April of this year. The family expresses heart felt gratitude to Nathan and Annette for their selfless dedication and sacrifice.  The Meadows staff and Dixie Hospice are recognized for their compassionate care and genuine friendship, and the countless friends who became family over the years.

Tonya will be fondly remembered by her children, 8 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.  She is preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Gary Day, her parents, as well as her brother Richard Egbert and his wife Nina Egbert.

We are grateful for Mom’s life and the memories we cherish.  Her legacy will live on in the hearts of those she touched.  

Graveside services to honor and celebrate Tonya's life will be held on Saturday, October 21, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at the Tonaquint Cemetery, 1777 S. Dixie Dr., St. George, Utah.