Tonya Karleen King Richard

October 25, 1955 ~ June 8, 2024

Tonya Karleen King Richard, of Denham Springs, LA, was a caring wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, sister and friend. At the age of 68, Tonya passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by her loving family on Saturday, June 8^th, 2024.

Tonya was born to the late Freddie Lee and Lotus Eileen King on October 25^th, 1955, in Dallas, TX. There, she became a young mother to 4 beautiful children: Michelle, Mandy, Kevin and Craig. In 1987, she tragically lost the 3 youngest children, leaving her heart forever broken. In 2020, Tonya became a published author for her book called “A Childlike Faith” to which she was very proud of. The book shares the story of the loss of her 3 children and her journey in always remaining faithful to God.

Tonya is survived by her loving husband of 30 years, Carl A. (Bucky) Richard, Jr.; her daughter Michelle Darleen Bernal (Julian); her brother Donald R. King; her bonus-daughters Lauren Richard Monaghan (James) and Claire Richard Clouatre (Ryan); and her grandchildren Drew Foster, Macy Foster, Dylan Clouatre, Olivia Monaghan and Luke Monaghan.

She was preceded in death by her three beautiful children Amanda Leslie Sheffield, Kevin Michael Sheffield, Craig Darron Sheffield; and her parents, Freddie Lee King and Lotus Eileen Routt.

The family would like to thank the staff of Baton Rouge Hospice for their exceptional care and support over the last few months.

A memorial visitation will be held at Seale Funeral Home, Denham Springs on Saturday, June 29, 2024 beginning at 2:00pm. Celebration of Life services will be at 4:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Cancer Society or Baton Rouge Hospice in Tonya’s name.  Please sign the online guestbook at