Toni DeGain

Toni DeGain's Unforgettable Life

Stella DeGain, better known as Toni, 70, of Clarkston, MI, danced her way into heaven's gate on June 11, 2026, almost certainly to a Gloria Estefan track and an instant coffee or ice cold Dr. Pepper in her hands. She was a fiercely generous soul who would literally give a stranger her last meal—and leave everyone feeling full from her incredible food, whether it be homemade tortillas, enchiladas, or brisket.

Born in San Antonio, Texas on April 5, 1956 to Stella & Turner Johnson, she was a born fighter. Born prematurely and so small she could fit inside a cigar box, from the very beginning she had to overcome an abundance of life's obstacles. These trials led to her finding Jesus Christ and she lived her faith out loud and with her whole heart, oftentimes helping others to find Him as well. With her faith and tenacity as a fighter, Toni has made it through some powerful storms, some of which include losing her precious daughter Monica, moving from her home state of Texas to Michigan, battling breast cancer, bladder cancer, heart attacks, and her most recent test, lung cancer. And while many may wonder how someone who has gone through so much still trusts in God, it was never a question for her. She let others know that in her latest test, she was ready to dance with Jesus. This deep faith drove her giving spirit, never waiting for a "thank you" or an audience. She quite literally would give you her last, but she knew God would take care of the rest and He always did.

Toni and her husband Dave transformed their home into a sanctuary for so many. It was a revolving door for anyone in need of shelter or a soft place to land. Over the decades, their roof became home to sisters, brothers, cousins, nieces, and nephews. She didn't simply offer a room; she extended her peace and her plate to everyone. Her devotion to her children, Mike and Amanda, was absolute; even while juggling full-time work with Dave, she never missed a single milestone, ensuring they were always present. This meant that most of their friends grew up simply calling her "mom." Every child who walked through her door—or her Mijos and Mijas, as she lovingly called them—experienced her affection through her legendary cooking. To leave her house hungry was simply impossible. Her spirit of service was tireless; at any gathering, you wouldn't find her merely as a guest, but rather washing dishes, clearing tables, and tending to the host's needs. This deep-seated care was matched by her uncompromising commitment to the truth. Toni was fiercely honest, living by the conviction that a difficult truth far outweighed a comfortable lie. While she may not have always offered the words you desired, she unfailingly provided the words you needed to hear.

She leaves behind a family who will miss her deeply and will fiercely commit to continuing her legacy: her sisters and their families, Helen Butterworth, Christie Williams (Larry), Mary Freeman, her brother-in-laws and their families, Mike DeGain (Donna), Steve DeGain, Ken DeGain, Mark DeGain, Gail Price (Patrick), Ryan DeGain, her mother in-law, Kathy DeGain, and so many nieces and nephews which she loved deeply. In addition she leaves her daughter, Amanda DeGain (David, Joshua, & Noah Stephens), her son, Michael DeGain (Katie), her husband Dave DeGain, and her dearest earthly treasure, her grandkids, Grahm & Louisa DeGain, who were the absolute lights of her life. She is now reunited with her beautiful daughter Monica, her parents Stella & Turner Johnson, her beloved aunts and uncles which include Emma & Bob Doran, Celia & Mike Gonzales, Pearla & Bob Smith, Mary & Pete Offrink, and her grandparents Minnie & Berney Balboa, along with many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Toni's journey provides a blueprint for us all: a life rooted in devotion to God and Jesus, defined by extreme giving and the service of others. To honor Toni's life, consider the following: sending flowers which she loved, donating to Tunnels 2 Towers, or consider turning the music up and dancing without abandon, speaking a hard truth, or extending a helping hand.

Visitation Sunday, June 21st from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the Lewis E. Wint & Son Funeral Home, Clarkston.

Funeral Service Monday, June 22nd at 12:30 pm at the funeral home.

Interment will follow at Great Lakes National Cemetery.

A Celebration of Life for Toni DeGain will take place at Independence Oaks County Park - Twin Chimneys Picnic Shelter after the Cemetery Prayers from 4:00 to 8:00 pm.  9501 Sashabaw Rd. Clarkston, Michigan  48348

Memorials may be made to Tunnels to Towers Foundation.