I have been asked to write my own - so you literally asked for it.

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I am Tonya Harrop Dickerson Maxwell. My body is dead, but my spirit - ME - well I am doing great. I have no pain to deal with anymore. I got a hug from my Savior and the first plate of cookies from my Dad. Don’t worry, I know you are jealous, because I am still here. I still see you, and I will forever love you. Dad also says hi - he loves you too.

I was born September 28th 1971 to my amazing faith-filled mother Roslyn Kyle Harrop. My natural father was Ted Elias Dickerson. My real father, my dad, was and remains, even in death, Daniel Carl Maxwell.

I have many brothers and sisters, blood and otherwise, who whether they like it or not, I love, cherish, and continue to pray for.

To my babies, my nieces and my nephews - you are my joy! I love you so much, infinity times infinity. I still see you, I will always be close - so don’t go wiping boogers where you shouldn't be.

“If I had a life pursuit it was to know and understand God. Then it was to draw closer to Him ”

My friends, so many of whom are to me extended family, thank you for sharing your lives and light with me. I will always love you.

Everyone here has in some way given me the glorious experience of loving, enjoying, and surviving - well till recently - life. Can’t wait to see you all again.

Now to the facts of my life, not the stuff that stays behind like jobs or hobbies, the real stuff, the stuff that matters most. I am a member of the Restored Church, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

I served a full-time mission, and due to poor health, surprise, came back too early. Dad told me to get over myself and be a part-time missionary, so I did and served for approximately fifteen years. I loved most of it, all had ways of challenging me and changing me for the good.

If I had a life pursuit it was to know and understand God. Then it was to draw closer to Him - those who know me, those who know my life, will know it was a bit of a storm most of the time. Most of my dreams did not come true, and I lived in pain for as far back as I can remember. The mantra from the movie “What About Bob” often came out of my mouth on a bad day, “I feel good, I feel great, I feel wonderful,” and I am happy to report I still do.

God has forever been my glue. He has been, and will always be, my very best friend. He never left me, and He will never leave any of you. He is the most amazing Heavenly Father, full of love, full of patience, full of forgiveness. I know Him, and I know He knows you. I love Him and I know He loves you.

I have been so blessed to have you in my life, and as part of my journey. I’ll see you all on the flipside.

Love you muchly, Yaya Tonya

A viewing will take place on Tuesday, August 26th at 10:45 am in Bountiful at 650 South 200 East. A funeral Service will take place at the same location and date starting at 12pm