Obituaries

Tonya L. Cole, age 56, passed away on January 26, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. She was born on July 12, 1969, in Germantown, Ohio, and lived a life defined by loyalty, laughter, and deep, unconditional love.

Tonya was a protector and guardian by nature—a steady presence and a safe place for those she loved. She was a friend to everyone she met, always willing to give the shirt off her back, and she never hesitated to stand up for the people and animals she cared about. Her sense of humor was quick and contagious, and she was endlessly fun to be around. Whether she was belting out karaoke, laughing through a horror movie, or striking up a conversation with a stranger, Tonya made people feel seen and welcomed.

She built a dedicated career with the Internal Revenue Service, where she managed and trained others with passion, pride, and genuine care. Teaching and guiding came naturally to her, and she took great joy in helping others succeed.

Above all else, Tonya’s greatest accomplishment—and greatest joy—was her son, JD Cole. The bond they shared was unbreakable and full of love. They cherished their time together, especially watching television and movies side by side. JD fondly remembers their many evenings watching Bones, one of their favorites. Tonya also loved the works of Stephen King and could always be counted on for a great horror movie recommendation.

Tonya is survived by her beloved son, JD Cole; her sister, Rhonda Bosworth; her niece, Krystal Ladd; her nephews, Hunter (Chelsea) Barnes and Billy (Kinsley) Bosworth; and her great-nieces and great-nephews, Makenna, Iroh, and Foster. She also leaves behind good friends Juliann Smith, Denise Morris, and Kristina Clark; her cherished cats—Kandy, Koby, and Onyx Kane—who were truly family to her.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Joyce Moyer; her father, Dean Cole; and her stepfather, Ralph Booker.

Tonya had a special connection to butterflies, a symbol of transformation, resilience, and beauty—qualities she carried throughout her life.

In honoring Tonya’s wishes, her family asks that her life be celebrated rather than mourned. Remember her laughter, her loyalty, her kindness, and the fierce love she gave so freely.

In her memory, donations may be made in Tonya’s name to the ASPCA reflecting her deep passion for cats and her dream of one day opening a cat café. Family and friends are also encouraged to support and visit the Purrfect Day Cat Café in Covington, Kentucky.

A visitation will be held at Linnemann Funeral Homes in Erlanger, Kentucky, on Sunday, February 1, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Attendees are invited to wear purple in her honor.