Tonia North, a kind-hearted and determined woman, passed away surrounded by her family on June 3, 2026 at the age of 61, after a courageous battle with breast cancer.
Tonia was a proud Lowell High School graduate who continued her education at Grand Rapids Community College and Davenport University, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Business and Marketing. Her hard work and talent were recognized through several marketing awards, a reflection of her drive, intelligence, and dedication.
After college, Tonia married the love of her life, and together they created a lifetime of beautiful memories and a beautiful family. She had a lifelong love for antiques, especially postcards, and one of her greatest dreams came true when she opened a storefront in her hometown after years of managing her business online. North Star Antiques held a special place in her heart for nearly 10 years.
Tonia was known for her warm spirit and her ability to truly listen. She found joy in hearing people’s stories and had a special gift for making connections with everyone she met. Her strength, kindness, and genuine care for others will always be remembered.
Tonia was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Shirley Smith. She is survived by her loving husband, John; her children, John P. (Zoie), Jacob, Mackenzie, and Morgan North; her granddaughter, Laken, and another grandchild expected in August; her siblings, Tom, Gerry, and Mark (Jill) Smith; her sisters-in-law Lynda (Joseph) Mayberry and Gwenn (Clarence) Wert; as well as many loving cousins, nieces, nephews, close friends, and her three beloved Shelties.
Visitation will be held from 2-4PM & 6-8PM on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at Roth-Gerst Funeral Home, 305 N. Hudson, Lowell, Michigan 49331. The funeral service will follow on Friday, June 12, 2026, at 11AM, at the funeral Home, with visitation one hour prior.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lowell Pink Arrow Pride, c/o Lowell Community Wellness, P.O. Box 246, Lowell, MI 49331, or online at pinkarrowpride.com. Donations may also be made to the Lowell Area Historical Museum at lowellmuseum.org.
6 Responses
Tonia was such a great friend. She was such an advocate when I was diagnosed with breast cancer and I will always, always remember how special she made me feel. I will miss my friend. So welcoming always, so happy to see everyone and so kind hearted. She loved her children and made sure they always knew they were loved.
I will miss our dinners together and our high school class reunions will never be the same without you. So many memories will you from high school.
So much love for you dear sweet Tonia. I will miss you dearly!!!
The biggest punch to the gut I have ever had to sucumb to, I will struggle going forward without her, she was our sister, the youngest, short of 62. I’m the oldest sib. From my perspective, the best of us 4.
And the youngest most energetic goes 1st is unfathomable to me.
Well liked and loved by all who met her and dealt with her.
Oh dear Tonia I will miss you so. In the 10 years that have known you we have become like sisters? or maybe mother daughter. Loved you dearly and so would Barney say if he were here. Will so miss you and our daily texts etc. We had so much fun last summer when you would pick me up in Rockford and we would go garaging together and have lunch. You were the most loving ,patient person I have ever known. During your long hard battle with cancer you did try so hard not to complain and were always looking out for other peoples problems. We shared many talks about our Lord and Savior and I know that you are with Him in heaven . Will never forget you . Will always remember our wonderful friendship and fun times together. See you again one day.
We are so sorry for your family’s loss. Our hearts and prayers are with you all.
We are so sorry for your loss. Praying for John and family
Tonia and I worked together – twice! First at Foremost, then at Growth Through People. Her passion and energy were contagious. She was a dedicated coworker, a fierce friend, and one of the most spiritual humans I’ve ever met. Never under estimate the positive impact she had, and likely on more people that she could ever imagine! While it’s been 35 years since we worked together, we stayed in touch. She was the kind of person who I could reconnect with after not seeing for years, and pick up with again as if the conversation had never paused. I expect no less when I inevitably see her on the other side. May the warmth and love of your memories sustain you. God Bless.