Tonika Victoria Goins, 43, joined her Lord and Savior at 8:05pm on Thursday, February 4, 2016 with family and friends surrounding her.

Tonika was born May 9, 1972 in Lake Charles, LA, the eldest daughter of Theda Ambrose and Oscar Goins. She graduated from Washington-Marion Magnet High School in 1990 and went on to purse her bachelor''s degree from McNeese State University in the field of Public Relations. Later she graduated from Southern University and A&M College earning her Master''s degree in Public Relation. Tonika received a full scholarship from United States Department of Agriculture to purse an additional master''s degree in Urban Forestry from Southern University. She became the first African-American female district forest ranger for the state of Louisiana. At her death she was district ranger of the LBJ grassland in Decatur, TX.

Though her time was short as a member of the illustrious sorority, Delta Sigma Theta, she truly exemplified all the principles of sisterhood. She was compassionate, courteous, dedicated, honest, and exhibited all those characteristics that a Delta stood for.

She was preceded in death by her sister Tyra Stacey, great grandparents Victoria and Hollis Jones, Grandmother Mary L. Malvo, Grandparents Eary and Willie Corinthian Goins, and great aunt Margaret Jones-Tolbert.

She is survived by her mother Ms. Theda M. Ambrose, father Oscar S. Goins, her sister Tausha R. Goins, son Bryson A. Goins, and daughter Da''Nae V. Heath.

SERVICE INFORMATION

Service date: February 13, 2016

Tonika''s funeral will be Saturday, February 13th at 12noon at the New Emanuel Baptist Church. Viewing will be from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. with the Omega Omega service rendered by Delta Sigma Theta Sorority at 11:00 a.m. Rev. Roland Mouton will officiate. Burial will be in Combre Memorial Park.