[NFBOH-Cleveland] In Loving Memory.

Wed Oct 22 22:21:47 UTC 2025

Cleveland,

As you are aware, we have lost two members in our circle and chapter.

Malessa Kennedy who never got the opportunity to join a meeting. A
proclamation was sent to the family. She was a relative of Theresa McKenney.

And Lucky Toney who was a shining artist and member for over four years
passed away this month as well. Her home going is on tomorrow. Cleveland
sent flowers and a proclamation. Her obituary is below.

Lucky's service can be viewed online tomorrow.

Keep both families in your prayers.

Go To:

LaKeshia
<https://www.articobits.com/obituaries/je-washington-funeral-services-inc/la
keshia-keysha-monique-toney-obituary> "Keysha" Monique Toney Obituary in
Youngstown at J.E. Washington Funeral Services, Inc. - Youngstown | Obit

LaKeshia "Keysha" Monique Toney

12/03/1974 - 10/09/2025

LaKeshia "Keysha" Monique Toney

LaKeshia Monique Toney, a radiantly shining star, entered eternity on
October 9, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and music that
will forever echo in our hearts. Born on December 3, 1974, in Youngstown,
Ohio, she was a precious gift to her parents, Reuben Robinson and Vickie
Toney. Lovingly known as Keysha, she had a way of lighting up every space
she entered, her spirit leaving a sparkle where there had been none.

Keysha's journey began in the church, where her voice first rose like a
spring breeze, wrapping around us and lifting our spirits high. Keysha
believed firmly that every blessing from God was to be nurtured and shared,
a sentiment that guided her through life and her career. From her joyful
singing in the pews to captivating performances at Rayen School, her talent
was undeniable. She didn't just perform; she shared her soul, bringing
tenderness and strength in the melody and message of each song.

Life took her from the familiar stages and venues of the Mahoning Valley to
the illustrious Apollo Theatre in Harlem and beyond, where her presence
resonated with the echoes of appreciation. The standing ovation she received
at the Apollo was a visible witness of her giftedness. She commanded and
demanded respect on and off the stage. Keysha joined her voice to the rhythm
of renowned R & B groups, while she appreciated the opportunity, she would
not compromise her value of self-worth and the integrity of her craft within
the entertainment industry.

Keysha was a powerful and soulful vocalist, known for her performances in
genres like soul, jazz, neo-soul, gospel, and R&B. Her captivating spirit
and powerful performances along with a commanding presence soon became her
signature, leaving a lasting impression wherever she went. Touring
nationally, she gained recognition for her staggering performances. She was
also appreciated for her work as a singer & vocal coach, as well as writing
and arranging music. She has also performed internationally in places like
Europe and the Bahamas. Keysha's music can be heard on the ReverbNation
platform.

Driven by her passion to perfect her craft, LaKeshia ventured into academia,
earning a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from Kent State University's
Hugh A. Glauser School of Music and later conferred a Master's in Music from
Grand Canyon University. Keysha was also a state licensed nail technician.

She became more than an entertainer; she was a mentor, an educator at
Stambaugh Academy in Youngstown, and later Hazelwood's Propel School in
Pittsburgh, filling hearts with the magic of music-encouraging her students
not only to find their voice but to flourish in their unique artistry.
Keysha instilled in her students not just the notes of music, but also the
rhythm of life: the joy of self-expression, the discipline of practice, and
the beauty of connection. Keysha's impact on her scholars was profound, her
passion for music ignited sparks that would carry them through their own
journeys.

Despite being visually challenged, Keysha was able to cast a vision that
inspired unconditional acceptance, resounding hopefulness and eternal peace.
She was a member of the National Federation for the Blind of Ohio and was a
member of the Cleveland chapter. As an advocate for the visually impaired,
Keysha used her voice and presence to empower others to defy imposing
limitations.

Keysha legacy will be sustained by her father Reuben Robinson; children
Aysha J. Toney of Atlanta, Essence Nicole Johnson of Cleveland, Kye Thomas
of Atlanta Ga. and the light of her life, her granddaughter Haelo Toney.
Precious moments will be embraced by her siblings Paris (Joshua) Hill of
Columbus Ga, Elizabeth (Denis) Robinson of Wilkes Barre, Pa Andra Toney of
California, Emmette Toney of Columbus, Oh and Ajaunte Toney of Youngstown.

LaKeshia will be fondly remembered with deep love by an expansive score of
family, friends and fan from all over the world which includes aunts, Alisa
Toney of Youngstown, Martha Brogdon of Pickerington, Oh and Elizabeth Majors
of Kokomo, In.; her neice, Ja'Osha Hill and nephews, Jyshawn Hill, Romello
Hill and Denim Robinson.

As Keysha's steps were ordered by God, she accepted the celestial journey
into eternity and was reunited among the ancestors which include her beloved
mother, Vickie Toney (2012), cherished brother, Andrew Toney (1995) and
niece, Alliyah Janae' Toney (2002).

As we gather to remember Keysha, we hold close the melodies she gifted us
and the love she shared so freely. She may have left this realm, but her
voice will forever resonate in our hearts, reminding us to live fully, love
deeply, and embrace the music of life.

Keysha embraced her personification as a Diva and Met-Gala attire of
elegance is encouraged. She will be adorned in the colors purple, black,
white and gold which was her professional trademark. Respectfully, the
family requests no tee shirts or denim jean attire at her public tributes.

In recognition of Keysha's life, the family invites the community to a 10:00
AM public viewing on Thursday October 23, 2025, at the Jaylex Event Center,
2110 Glenwood Ave. The Celebration of Life services will begin at 11:00 AM
with Rev. Lewis W. Macklin II as the celebrant. The services will be
livestreamed on the Facebook Page of J.E. Washington Funeral Services.

At this time of intimate need and personal loss, the family of LaKeshia
Monique Toney elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care, along with
Transitional After-Care Arrangements to the J. E. Washington Funeral
Services, 2234 Glenwood Avenue, Youngstown, Ohio, 330.782.8500.

Suzanne M. Hartfield Turner

National Federation of the Blind of Ohio, Vice President

Ohio Legislative Director

Cleveland Chapter, President

The National Federation of the Blind advances the lives of its members and
all blind people in the United States. We know that blindness is not the
characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the
expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles
between blind people and our dreams. Our collective power, determination,
and diversity achieve the aspirations of all blind people.

P: (216) 990-6199

W: NFBOhio.ORG

Facebook:  <https://www.facebook.com/ohiosblind/photos/>
https://www.facebook.com/ohiosblind/photos/

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