Tonita McMillan Cromartie (80) departed this earthly life on Wednesday, January 22, 2020 at Duke Raleigh Hospital in Raleigh, NC. Tonita gracefully fell asleep. While, doctors and specialists struggled to find a medical reason for her sleep, we know that the words of 2 Timothy 4:6-7 apply, “as for me, the hour has come for me to be sacrificed; the time is here for me to leave this life. I have done my best in the race, I have run the full distance and I have kept the faith.” (GNT).
Tonita was born August 25, 1939, in Brooklyn, NY to Clarence and Grace McMillan. She was the youngest of four children. Tonita was proudly educated by the New York City school system. After graduation, Tonita fulfilled numerous roles within the NYC Department of Social Services, New York school system as well as at a number of private, public and non-profit entities.
Throughout her years, Tonita truly lived her life to the fullest. Tonita enjoyed traveling, including tropical destination such as Bermuda, the Virgin Islands, Hawaii, and Mexico. She enjoyed exotic sights in Europe, especially Monte Carlo. Tonita enjoyed the calm of the ocean and was a fan of beach vacations and cruises. Most importantly Tonita was a devoted mother to her children (and later grandchildren).
Tonita’s spirit of love, caring and generosity supported, sustained and carried her children throughout her life.
Tonita moved to Fayetteville, NC in 2004. Proving that love can be found at any age, Tonita married Hosea Cromartie in 2005 at the age of 65.
Tonita is predeceased by her parents, Clarence and Grace (Fant) McMillan as well as her brothers, Clarence Jr. and Bernard.
Tonita leaves to cherish her memory, her loving husband Hosea Cromartie; sons Derek Young and John Gee, as well as her daughter and son-in-law Ayana and Marc Robinson. Tonita leaves six grandchildren, Derek Jr. and Antwon Young; Celeste and Darius Gee and Jordan and Eve Robinson. Tonita also leaves her sister, Evelyn Plummer. Finally, Tonita leaves a host of nieces, nephews, in-laws, other relatives, good friends, “adopted” family and her dearly loved church family.
While Tonita Cromartie will be deeply missed by many, we take comfort in knowing that she is with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ and we know that who the Son sets free, is free indeed!