Tonya Renea Francisco Merritt was born on November 1, 1968, in Carthage, Missouri and was a resident of Andover Life Care Center in Andover, KS.  Tonya grew her Angel wings while being surrounded by loved ones on April 11, 2026, after fighting a long medical battle.

She was survived by her parents, Norma and Garry Cantu of El Dorado, KS, her Son Levi Corteville (Alley) of Wichita, KS, sister Cassie Arredondo Blanton (Scottie) of Cheney, KS brother, Jamie Cantu of El Dorado, KS, sister Freda Jackson of Joplin, MO and Samantha Busse of Joplin, MO.   Tonya has several special aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews along with her lifelong companion dog Molly.

She was a bus driver for the Wichita Public School system and Valley Center Public School system up until her illness.

Her family would like to thank the Andover Life Care Center and the doctors and nurses of Kansas Medical Center for the love and kindness they showed her in her final days.

Tonya you are missed more than you ever would have known.  Rest in peace our beloved Tonya!

A memorial will be held for Tonya on June 20, 2026 at the Augusta Train Depot from 2-4 pm.