Tonya L. Trafton, 55, of Cobleskill, NY, passed away peacefully on Sunday morning, July 20, 2025, at Bassett Healthcare in Cooperstown, following a brief illness.

Born on February 23, 1970, in Cooperstown, Tonya was the daughter of Ken Pessolano and the late Betty Lou Shunk Pessolano. She grew up in the Sharon Springs area and graduated from Sharon Springs High School.

Tonya dedicated much of her life to caring for others. Most recently, she worked as a healthcare provider at Marchand Manor in Sharon Springs, where her compassion and warmth touched the lives of many.

But more than anything, Tonya’s heart belonged to her family. Her husband, Timothy Trafton, and her sons, Timothy (Karlie) Trafton and Tyler Trafton, were the absolute center of her world. She was a proud and fiercely devoted wife and mother, and her love for her “boys” was as steady and strong as she was. They were her greatest joy, her constant purpose, and the reason behind her every smile.

Tonya had a bold spirit and a deep love for life. Whether riding her motorcycle on a beautiful day, sharing stories over coffee, or dancing and laughing at family gatherings, she was always the life of the party — unapologetically herself and full of light. Her presence could fill a room, and her warmth was felt by everyone she met.

She was predeceased by her mother, Betty Lou Pessolano, and her brothers, Lawrence and Walter Pawlaczyk.

Survivors include her husband, Timothy Trafton whom she had been with for 43 years; her father, Ken Pessolano; her two beloved sons, Timothy Trafton (Karlie) and Tyler Trafton; her siblings, Cathy (Bill) Jones and George (Laurinda) Pawlaczyk; as well as many cherished aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Tonya will be remembered not only for her fierce love and loyalty but for the joy she brought to everyday moments. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

The family will receive friends and relatives on Friday, August 1, 2025, from 10:00-12:00 PM at the Houghtaling and Hanley Funeral Home, 20 Otsego Street, Canajoharie, NY 13317. A Memorial service will take place at noon, followed by inurnment at Ames Cemetery.

In place of flowers, please consider donations to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741.