Tonya Colene Burson Ivory 1973-2025 It is with profound

Tonya Colene Burson Ivory 1973-2025 It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Tonya Colene Burson Ivory, 52, a resident of Belen, on Nov. 16, 2025. Tonya was born on April 23, 1973, to William "Dick" and Ginger Burson in Albuquerque. She was a graduate of Belen High School, and received her bachelor's degree in psychology from UNM. Tonya served in many different rolls in the work force and was a senior nutritionist for the New Mexico Department of Health before her passing. Tonya loved the outdoors and was an avid fisherman. She loved traveling to the many different lakes in New Mexico and photographing the beautiful scenery. Tonya shared this love for the outdoors with her husband, Alvin, whom she loved so much. Family was everything to Tonya. She loved hosting gatherings at her house and especially loved having get-togethers to watch football games. Tonya was a member of Calvary Chapel in Belen, and was actively seeking where she could serve and reach more people, more specifically, Tonya wanted to become more involved in community outreach and helping the homeless. Her faith was the corner stone of her life and she allowed her faith to guide her in her roles as a wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend and grandma. Being a grandmother to her two granddaughters, Layla and Zia, brought her so much joy. Tonya was a light that brightened every room. She loved her family and friends wholeheartedly. Her beautiful smile and infectious life will never be forgotten. Tonya is preceded in death by her grandparents, Ben and Jo Shough, and Harvey and Leta Burson; mother, Ginger Burson; and her son, Malachi Burson. She is survived by her father, William "Dick" Burson; husband, Alvin Ivory; brother, Coleman and his wife, Jennifer, and their children, McKenna, Spencer and Ashtynn; and grandchildren, Layla and Zia. A celebration of life will be held Friday, Dec. 12, at Calvary Chapel Rio Grande Valley in Belen. A visitation will be held at 9:30 a.m., and services at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Calvary Chapel's Outreach Ministry in Tonya's memory.