Tonja “Toni” Carole Hodnett

Tonja “Toni” Carole Hodnett, née Thompson age 61, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 28, 2025. Toni was born on June 12, 1964, in Big Spring, Texas, where she spent her entire life building deep roots, and meaningful relationships. Though she was small in stature, she was big in enthusiasm.

After attending Big Spring High School, Toni dedicated her professional life to floral design. A calling that reflected her creative spirit, patience, and natural ability to bring beauty into the world. Flowers were more than her work; they were an extension of who she was.

Toni had a deep love for gardening and found joy in nurturing life from the soil. Each holiday season, she delighted those she loved by making homemade jams and jellies. She adored her cats, cherished laughter, and had a special fondness for the clever humor of Monty Python, which never failed to bring a smile to her face.

Family meant everything to Toni. She was born to, Mary and Terrell V. Thompson, and shared an especially close bond with her mother that remained strong throughout her life.

She is survived by her sister, Terrie Lou Bradley who will forever carry her memory in her heart.

She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Bobby and Jackie Thompson.

Though she had no children of her own, Toni poured her love freely into the lives of her nieces and nephews: Will Smith, Kasey Thompson, Tyler Bradley, and Tana Bradley, each of whom she loved dearly and treated as her own.

In 2003, Toni married Russell Hodnett, and together they shared 22 years of marriage filled with companionship, laughter, and unwavering devotion.

Toni’s life was one of quiet generosity, gentle humor, and steadfast love. She will be remembered for her warmth, her creativity, and the way she made people feel seen and cared for. Though she will be deeply missed, the beauty she cultivated, in gardens, in homes, and in hearts, will live on.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory. Online condolences can be made at www.npwelch.com

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