Tonya Evette Abbott (nee: Yetman)

April 21, 1968 – August 10, 2026

Heaven gained another angel on Monday, August 10, 2026, when our loved one, Tonya, passed away at 58 years of age. Words cannot describe the pain we feel as we navigate through this sudden and unexpected loss.

Tonya was born and raised in Gander, a true Ganderite through and through. She lived a full, exciting life and had several rewarding careers in her short time here. She started at the Gander Golf Course when she was just 13 years old, helping in the old clubhouse that was under the Airport Club. She grew to love the sport and worked her way into the role of Manager of the Gander Golf Club. She was very proud of her work and loved the new Clubhouse that was built with direction from her and the members. She could play a game of golf with the best of them. She retired from the Gander Golf Club when she and Dwayne decided to branch out as entrepreneurs of the Inn on Bennett. They ran this Inn for over 5 years. Between Tonya’s business savvy and Dwayne’s cooking skills no one left the Inn on Bennett feeling less than at home.

Then they fulfilled the dream of running their own restaurant. Dwayne was a chef and Tonya was right by his side helping to run The All New Rosie’s Restaurant on Roe. Anyone who has visited this restaurant knows how much love and dedication went into the food and service received there. Unfortunately, this dream was cut short when the love of Tonya’s life, Dwayne, passed away unexpectedly at 57 in 2022. Tonya ran the restaurant for the next three years but decided to retire a year ago last August. It was bittersweet but it was time for her to enjoy her retirement. She loved to travel; it was a true passion for her. She loved visiting new places and experiencing new cultures. In the past year she travelled a lot but life is unfair and unfortunately her travels have come to an end. She’s at peace now with her true love and our parents.

Predeceased by the love of her life, Dwayne Abbott; son Matthew Abbott; parents Allan and Marie Yetman; and a number of extended family and friends she loved.

Left to mourn with precious memories are her brother Richard Yetman (Loretta) of Happy Adventure; sisters Donna Kelly (Don) of Gander; Christina Kieley (Perry) of Gander; mother and father-in law, Bonnie and George Abbott of Musgrave Harbour; Cuban Godson, Jason; nephews Josh Kieley (Courtney) and Justin Kieley (Raya); Great Nieces and Nephews Nova, Nina, and Nate Kieley; Corrissa and Lucas Pearce. Grandchilden; Dreden Powell and his grandmother Joyce (Gander); Jessie Rand-Abbott and her grandmother Elizabeth Russell (Ontario); Claude and Alexander and their mother Abigail Clarke (Gander); Hayleanna (Gander); brothers-in-law Dean Abbott (Shannon); Eddie Abbott (Kim); sister-in-laws Carolyn Hillier (Darren); Bridgette Kenny (Mark), and Ann Abbott; and special niece, Leah Abbott-Legere as well as a large circle of extended family and friends.

As per Tonya’s wishes cremation has taken place.

Resting at Stacey’s Funeral Home, Gander. Visitation will be held on Sunday, August 16, 2026, from 2:00 p.m – 4:00 p.m and 7:00 p.m – 9:00 p.m.  A funeral service will be held on, Monday, August 17, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at St. Martin’s Anglican Cathedral, Lindberg Avenue, Gander. Interment to follow at All Saints Cemetery, Gander.

Flowers are welcome or donations can be made in Tonya’s memory to Gander and Area SPCA.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Stacey’s Funeral Home, Gander.