Tonya LeAnn Nelson

Tonya Leann Nelson, 58, passed away on June 8, 2026. She was born on May 10, 1968, in Benton, Arkansas, and spent her life devoted to the people she loved most.

Tonya worked as a bookkeeper for 32 years, putting her associate degree in accounting and strong work ethic to good use throughout her career. She was dependable, hardworking, and took pride in doing things right.

More than anything, Tonya loved spending time with her family and friends. Her greatest joy in life was her granddaughters, who held a very special place in her heart and were her entire world. Whether she was attending family gatherings, sharing time with friends, or making memories with those she loved, Tonya treasured every moment spent together.

She also loved dirt-track racing, spending time outdoors, tending to her flowers and garden, and finding simple pleasures in everyday life.

Those left to cherish her memory include her daughter, Shawna Edenfield; grandchildren, Tristan Barker, Kylar Abbott, and Harley Wright; brothers, Rickey Caple and Ronnie Caple; best friends, Gina Smith and Barbara Marshall; and her special friend, Bert Stribling.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Letha Caple.

A visitation will be held on Friday, June 12, 2026, from 10:00 until 10:30 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 10:30 a.m., at Smith Family Funeral Home, 322 N. Market Street in Benton.

Because purple was Tonya’s favorite color, the family encourages friends and loved ones to wear purple to her service as a special tribute to her life and memory.

To honor Tonya’s life, the family kindly requests that charitable donations be made in her memory to the American Cancer Society. Your gift will honor her life while supporting the fight against cancer.

Tonya will be remembered for her kind heart, her love for her family, and the lasting friendships she built throughout her life. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.