Anthony William Joyner

Obituary for Anthony William Joyner aka Tony “Oginga” October 8, 1947 – April 25, 2025 Anthony William Joyner, affectionately known as Tony “Oginga,” Master Conga Drummer, peacefully departed this life at his residence on Friday, April 25, 2025, at the age of 77. Tony was born on October 8, 1947, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He was the beloved son of the late Albert Trimble and Audrey Barrett. He was later adopted by the late Clinton L. Joyner, who raised him with love and dedication. After graduating from I.C. Norcom High School in 1969, Tony enlisted in the United States Air Force. He served with pride as an Airman First Class at North Charleston Air Force Base in South Carolina. As an aircraft mechanic in the 437th Military Airlift Wing, his commitment and excellence contributed to his unit earning the prestigious U.S. Air Force Outstanding Unit Award. He was also honored with a distinguished service ribbon as a permanent decoration. His exceptional work was recognized for achieving an exceptionally meritorious rating for distinguished service over a one-year period. Due to Tony’s stellar work ethic, this was the second time the 437th unit received this honor. Factors contributing to the award included the development of a highly responsible airlift organization that maintained vital airlift routes essential to the United States’ overseas commitments. Following his honorable military service, Tony attended Virginia State University. It was during this time his musical talents truly flourished. As an accomplished Master Conga Drummer, he became a vital member of the funk/soul group POISON, which gained prominence with their 1976 appearance on Soul Train, featuring their hit single, “Let Me Lay My Funk On You.” Tony was a man of many gifts. In addition to his musical legacy, he was a skilled fragrance chemist—perfumer and aromatologist—who specialized in creating and analyzing unique fragrances. His creativity and care were evident in the custom scents he lovingly crafted for family and friends. Outside of his professional pursuits, Tony found joy in life’s simple pleasures: he loved movies, enjoyed completing Ravensburger puzzles, and especially found peace in rhythm—playing his conga drums for neighbors, Gethsemane Community Fellowship Baptist Church and The Prince of Peace Church, and longtime friends in Richmond, Virginia. He was also an active participant in the InnovAge Virginia PACE Program, where he collaborated with care teams to design personalized plans supporting his healthcare and social needs—embodying his enduring spirit of community and connection. Tony “Oginga” Joyner will be remembered as a man of rhythm, soul, and deep creativity—whose hands carried the heartbeat of generations, and whose life was a testament to artistry, service, and joy. He is survived by his children: Tonita Phillips (Bobby), Kimberly Joyner, Kala Threatt (Melanie), Akisha Threatt, Senithia Martin (Dennis), Namtasha Joyner, Jemell Ormond (Lorraine), and Kinshasa Joyner. He is also survived by his sisters: Melody Mitchell (James) Roxboro, N.C. and August Faith Waller Kingston, N.C. He is preceded in death by his parents, Audrey Barrett, Albert Trimble, and Clinton L. Joyner; brothers, Richard William Trimble (Annie) and Albert Clarence Trimble (Mattie); son, Santo Antonio Heyward. Tony leaves behind his 14 grandchildren: Devin (33), Khalil (30), Keenen (29), Jahni (28), Jahlen (28), Micah (22), McKenzie (21), Jada (20), Christian (14), Christopher (14), Janae (12), Jordyn (11), Ezekiel (10), and Levi (6), along with a host of beloved nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

Anthony William Joyner

October 8, 1947 - April 25, 2025