Emika Latanya Jones – Bridgers, best also known as "Tonya," of the 500 block Nelson Street, gained her wings on Tuesday, September 20, 2022. She was born in Norfolk, Virginia to her loving parents, Queenie D. "Sue" Jones and Alvin "Pep" Jones. Tonya was also a graduate of Lake Taylor High School.

Tonya enjoyed being around family and friends from helping others to even making jokes. She loved her parents, siblings, and kids. Tonya was known well for cooking as it was a passion of hers, and even gained the title of the "Queen of Mac & Cheese". While at home, Tonya would watch movies and television shows, but was a avid watcher of murder and mysteries shows. Tonya developed other activities in her free time such as crafting, reading, and audio books. Tonya would be known to bring mason jars full of surprises from bath salts and helpful and kind cards.

Tonya was diagnosed with Lupus back in 2009, and became a advocate. Where she was an active member of the Social Butterflies Lupus Support Group. In her personal time she would spend time with her kids "fish" and "best friend". Tonya was a loving and passionate mother and made sure she would do the best to support them in anyway possible. At times when she did not feel her best, she knew she could count of them, and even her "Big Little Sister". Tonya's support came from her family, but her biggest supporters are her kids and dad. When you see Tonya you would know instantly from the smile on her face and even the jokes she made. Tonya held many jobs and and captured many memories but her main job that she protected was being a loving mother. Tonya's sprit will be truly missed by those far and near.

Tonya leaves to cherish precious memories with, her husband Joseph L. Bridgers; one daughter: Keira Tatyana Bridgers "Best Friend" (Tevin) of Portsmouth, Virginia; one son: DaQuane Ledel Bridgers "Fish" (Dazja) of Norfolk, Virginia; sister: Chevelle Lewis of Chesapeake, Virginia; brother: Alvin Smith (Tara) of Spanish Fort, Alabama, two nephews: Demetri Jones and Shyheim Jones; two nieces: Raiynah Smith and Cleryssa Smith; one great-nephew: True Jones; Aunts: Vivian Harvey (William), Alice Lennon, Tina Norman, Beulah Fletcher, Stephanie Harris (Timothy), Minister Lillian Sivels (Junior), Minister Deloris Jones; Uncles: Thomas Norman, Calvin Norman, and James E. Williams Sr, and a host of cousins, extended family, and friends.

A funeral service will be held 11:00 a.m. Monday, September 26, 2022 at New Oak Grove Baptist Church, 3200 Head River Road, Virginia Beach. Viewing will be from 3-5pm Sunday at Pretlow and Sons Funeral Home, Chesapeake.