Antonette Rose

Harris

The light of a smile can pierce even the darkest night, and Tonie, as she was affectionately known, carried that light with her wherever she went. Her laughter was a melody, sweet and full, a song of joy that lightened weary hearts and reminded us that even in life's trials, God's love endures. She embodied the truth of Proverbs 17:22—"A joyful heart is good medicine"—always lifting others with her warmth, her kindness, and that ever-present, radiant grin.

Antonette Rose "Tonie" Harris, beloved mother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones. Born on January 16, 1970, in Toledo, Ohio, Tonie brought warmth, happiness, and unwavering love into the lives of her loved ones.

She was birthed into a holiness family and received her formal tutelage at the Zion Church of God in Christ under the leadership of Elder Martin Johnson where she was baptized, participated in Card Class, Sunshine Band, and Sunday School. She rededicated her life to Christ at the Saint James Holiness Church of God in Christ, "The Armory" under the leadership of Dr. William M. James Jr. At The Armory she served faithfully as a Greeter, member of the Singles Ministry and volunteer with the Youth Department where she enjoyed watching her son, Shaun, matriculate through ministry. She reconnected with the church of her birth after the passing of her mother and was nurtured spiritually by the teachings of her Pastor, Bishop Edward T. Cook.

A proud graduate of Scott High School's Class of 1988, Tonie's passion for learning led her to Herzing University, where she served as Student Body President and graduated with her Baccalaureate in Business Administration. Professionally, she dedicated her career to the healthcare industry for more than 35 years, making a lasting impact through her work with Medical Mutual of Ohio, Stateline TPA, UT Physicians Group, Healthcare Payers Coalition, and Ensemble Health Partners. Although remote at her last place of employment, she will be fondly remembered for her sense of humor, infectious laugh and positive personality.

Beyond her professional achievements, Tonie found joy in life's simple pleasures—traveling the globe with her "WE" Trippin' (Women's Empowerment Group), spending time with family, enjoying good food, watching her favorite television shows, and cherishing the laughter and love of her children Shaun and Kortney. Her kindness and infectious smile left an unforgettable mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Tonie's warm personality never met any strangers. She was honest, straightforward and loving. Younger women revered her as an Aunt and she became the "Team Mom" for every sports team her daughter competed with. She loved people genuinely and would show up for you in whatever was possible; as an advocate, prayer partner, listening ear, giving sage advice and even with tenacity ready to fight for any underdog if she had to.

Tonie was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Charlene A.S. Harris. She leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion in her children, Shaun and Kortney; her special niece, Leslie; and her siblings, Cass, Dorothy, Harold, Keith, Raymond Sr., Regina, Marquisa (Dewayne) , and LaShonda (Mareo). She also leaves behind a host of cherished nieces and nephews: Andrea Nicole, Erica, Stacee, Keyontae, Clarissa, Jeremy, Tamia, Raymond Jr., Mareo Jr., MaShonda, Monta, Marvell, Anthony Jr., Arnisha, and Dajuan.

Her life was also enriched by the deep friendships she formed, including her dear friends Robin Wormley and Carvella Smith. She was a mother in heart and spirit to her special son, Jude Christopher Simpson, and her beloved godchildren, Jasmine and Jaden Allen.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate caregivers at ProMedica's Hickman Cancer Center, Toledo Hospital's Neuro ICU, Flower Hospital's Hematology-Oncology Associates, and the dedicated nursing staff. A special thank you to Dr. David Macari, Mercedes, Martie, Dr. Fauker, Dr. Jessica Burns, and the entire medical team who cared for Tonie with kindness and grace. The family also deeply appreciates the unwavering support of the Ensemble Healthcare team—Johanna, Aisha, and Olivia, you are forever a part of our family.

We also wish to express our sincere gratitude to our church families: Cornerstone Church, New Life COGIC, Win the World Ministries, and the Church of God in Christ Worldwide. Thank you to Bishop Paul S. Morton and our family at the House of Day for your love, prayers, and support during this time.

Tonie's radiant spirit, her generous heart, and the joy she brought into the world will live on in the memories of those who loved her. Her legacy of faith, strength, and love will continue to shine through all the lives she touched.

With a smile that reflected God's grace and a heart that overflowed with love, Tonie was a living testament to Philippians 4:4—"Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice!" Though her voice is now but a whisper in the wind, her spirit lingers in every heart she touched, in every burst of laughter she inspired, in every act of love she so freely gave.

Gone too soon from this world, yet now a brilliant voice among the angels, singing in heaven's great choir, her light shining ever brighter in the presence of the Lord.