Toya Cardin Jones was born on October 28, 1976, in Victoria, Texas, to Willie Charles Jones and Verna Jones. The youngest of four children, Toya grew up alongside his three sisters, Phyllis, Priscilla, and Tanya.

A hometown legend whose remarkable athletic ability would carry him from the small town of Refugio, Texas, to the national stage, Toya was truly a once-in-a-generation athlete. A proud graduate of Refugio High School, he established himself as one of the most decorated high school track and field athletes in Texas history. Gifted with exceptional speed, strength, and versatility, he dominated the sprints, long jump, and triple jump, earning an astonishing 17 medals at the UIL Texas State Track and Field Meet, including a record-setting 14 gold medals.

His extraordinary performances helped lead the Refugio Bobcats to three consecutive state track and field championships from 1993 through 1995. In 1993 alone, as a sophomore, he captured five gold medals at the state meet. His talent extended beyond state and national competition when he represented the United States as a member of the 4x100-meter relay squad at the 1994 World Junior Championships in Athletics.

Toya’s athletic excellence continued at Texas A&M University, where he proudly represented the Aggies in both football and track and field. As a member of Texas A&M’s national championship 4x100-meter relay team, he earned prestigious All-American honors and helped the relay squad complete an undefeated season. His remarkable speed and athleticism also made him a formidable presence on the football field, where he competed wearing the Aggies’ maroon and white.

Following his collegiate career, Toya pursued professional football, competing as a defensive back and linebacker. His football journey included opportunities with the San Francisco 49ers, Denver Broncos, and Houston Texans of the National Football League, the Birmingham Thunderbolts of the XFL, and the BC Lions and Toronto Argonauts of the Canadian Football League. From the track to the gridiron, Toya’s athletic career reflected a lifetime of discipline, determination, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

In 2020, Toya was inducted into the Texas Track & Field Hall of Fame, a prestigious honor recognizing his remarkable athletic achievements and lasting contributions to the sport. From his record-setting performances at Refugio High School to his All-American success at Texas A&M, his induction cemented his place among the state’s celebrated track and field legends.

Beyond his accomplishments in sports, Toya was an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and visionary. He founded Sagis Medical Transport in Houston, Texas, channeling his ambition and leadership into building a business centered on service. He believed in giving back, creating opportunities, and helping others succeed.

Yet behind the medals, championships, and professional accomplishments was a man whose greatest treasures were his family, friendships, and the memories he created. Toya loved his family deeply and shared an especially close and cherished bond with his mother. He was generous, compassionate, and always willing to extend a helping hand.

Toya also had a larger-than-life personality and an unforgettable sense of humor. Whether sharing funny videos, telling outrageous stories, or laughing about something his daddy said or did, he knew how to bring joy to those around him.

If there was one thing Toya knew how to do, it was LIVE! And when we say he lived life to the fullest, we mean the FULLEST! He embraced every opportunity, celebrated life’s victories, pursued his passions, and made the most of every moment. His enthusiasm for life was just as remarkable as his athletic talent.

Toya is preceded in death by his beloved father, Willie Charles Jones.

He leaves to cherish his precious memories his loving mother, Verna Jones; his three sisters, Phyllis Rydolph (Kennard Rydolph), Priscilla Green (Malissee Malonson), and Tanya Carrejo (Christopher Carrejo); his niece Sarah Carrejo; his three nephews. Cole Carrejo, Kennard Rydolph III, and Joshua Carrejo; his godson, Lincoln; along with a host of loving aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.