Tonya R. Ferris, passed away on Feb. 1, 2013, in Seattle, after an extended period of ill health. She was born in Indianapolis, on Nov. 4, 1949, to the late William D. and Helen L. (Curtis) Ferris from whom she inherited her love of and immersion in music.
Tonya performed in many venues over her years in the Pacific Northwest including, nightclubs, cabarets, festivals, concert halls, weddings, memorials, churches, conferences and retreats. The musicians with whom she collaborated were eclectic, with styles ranging from jazz, pop and Latin, to country and Hawaiian. She recorded regional jingles for radio and television, as well as her own recordings. Her exquisite voice expressed music that uplifted, inspired and stirred the soul of the listener. Her warmth and enthusiasm touched the hearts of all who listened.
Tonya is survived by her daughter, Amy Johnson; beloved granddaughter, Violet Kempthorne of Seattle; sisters, Tere Payne (Richard), Tammy Adkins (David), Tracy Craig (Tom); brothers, Tim Ferris, Todd Ferris; 14 nieces and nephews; six great-nieces and great-nephews; and aunt, Jackie Miller.
The family will celebrate Tonya's life later this year.
