Tonya May Scott (56) passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of her family and caregivers on May 6, 2026 in Boise, Idaho. Tonya was born on November 16, 1969, in Colville, Washington. When she was just one year old, her family moved to St. Maries, the community she would always call home in her heart. She attended Heyburn Elementary School and enjoyed many childhood activities including summer Bible camps and Bluebirds.

On November 22, 1977, Tonya’s life was forever changed after a tragic automobile accident left her severely handicapped. Though her journey became far different than anyone could have imagined, Tonya faced life with courage, humor, determination, and a spirit that could never be broken. She continued her education in St. Maries through special education programs, but as she grew older, it became clear she needed additional support and opportunities to thrive. Her family made the difficult but loving decision to enroll her at the Lincoln School in Boise, Idaho, located on the historic old Fort grounds. There, Tonya blossomed. She made friends, gained independence, and flourished in ways that brought immense joy to her family. She proudly graduated in 1992.

Following graduation, Tonya moved to a Community Care facility in Kuna, on July 2, 1992 where she would spend the remainder of her life surrounded by compassionate caregivers and dear friends who became like family. She loved her beautiful assisted living home and the many people she shared life with there. Tonya had a social spirit and a big heart — she formed many close friendships and even enjoyed a few special romances over the years.

Tonya loved life’s simple joys. She adored country music, shopping trips, trips to the rodeo and hockey games, reading when she was able, movies, and television shows like Little House on the Prairie and Heartland. Going out to eat was one of her favorite treats, especially if Mexican or Chinese food was involved. More than anything, she loved the fellowship that came with gathering around a table with people she cared about.

Growing up in the country around horses shaped Tonya deeply. Even after her accident, horses remained one of her greatest passions. She participated in the Washington State University handicapped horse program and continued riding at home whenever possible. Her love for adventure never faded. In one unforgettable moment, Tonya quietly snuck out of the house in her wheelchair and headed straight into the horse pasture just to be near them.

Tonya was a true tomboy at heart and nothing ever seemed to scare or disgust her. She loved snakes, fishing, muddy adventures, and animals of every kind — especially cats, dogs, cows, and pigs. While living in Kuna, she especially enjoyed visiting a nearby farm where she could spend time around animals she loved so much. She also had a lifelong fascination with Monchhichis and monkeys, collecting them faithfully through the years.

Her adventurous streak and sense of humor kept everyone on their toes. After receiving an electric wheelchair, her dad jokingly reminisced about the days of taking four-wheelers out “mudding.” Tonya decided to try it herself. She took that wheelchair straight through the mud puddles near her home and managed to get it completely stuck. The story became one of many cherished family memories. Though the facility eventually had to take the wheelchair away because Tonya was simply too fearless with it, she laughed about it as much as anyone else.

Tonya also treasured quieter moments gardening with her grandmother, attending church services, participating in daily activities, and simply spending time with those she loved. Despite the hardships she faced, Tonya lived a life full of joy, laughter, stubborn determination, and love. She taught those around her that happiness is not measured by limitations, but by the spirit within.

She is survived by her loving parents, Jim Scott of St. Maries and Penny and Eric Mescher of Coeur d'Alene; her brother, Jimmy Scott Jr. of St. Maries; nieces Kassidi Scott of Spokane Valley and Dalley Beebe of Moscow; her aunts and uncles Ralph “Buck” and Judy Scott of Rathdrum, Bonnie Scott of St. Maries, Shannon and Larry Boyd of Spokane, Washington, and Curt Anderson of Addy, Washington; along with numerous cousins, extended family members, caregivers, and friends whose lives were forever touched by her.

Tonya was preceded in death by her grandparents Walter and Helen Scott and Don and Virginia Anderson; her uncles Chuck Scott and Scott Anderson; and her aunt Ronna Pryse.

Though Tonya’s life was marked by challenges, it was also marked by resilience, laughter, friendship, adventure, and unconditional love. She will be remembered for her mischievous spirit, her fearless heart, and the joy she brought to those fortunate enough to know her.

“Some people measure a life by what was lost, but Tonya’s life will always be remembered for the love she gave, the laughter she shared, and the courage with which she lived every single day.”

A graveside service is scheduled for Friday, June 12, 2026, at 2:00 pm at Woodlawn Cemetery in St. Maries, ID. A reception for fellowship and refreshments will follow at the Grub Box in St. Maries.