Sonya was born on December 22, 1973 to the late Billy Coleman and Frances Mae Richards. Sonya was known to her close friends and family as "Gal." Even though she didn't have children of her own, she loved and treated all of her nieces and nephews as they were her own. Sonya confessed hope in Christ at an early age and was a lifelong member of Mt. Pelier M.B. Church. She was a dedicated member that served on the usher board as well as a choir director. Sonya was a 1993 graduate of Columbus High School. She was employed for a number of years with McDonalds. She also worked recently as a Personal Care Assistant.

Sonya departed this life on July 11, 2023 in Columbus, MS. She is preceded in death by: her parents; her brother, Willie Coleman, her sister, Rachel Richards, and her nephew, Jeremiah Richards.

Sonya leaves to cherish her memories: four brothers: Monroe(Dymond)Richards of Yazoo, MS, James Richards of Columbus, MS, Johnny Coleman and Thomas Richards both of West Point, MS; her god-mother, Cynthia McGee of Columbus, MS; two god-sisters: Shaquita Williams and LaTracy Williams both of Columbus, MS; one god-brother, Leon McGee of Columbus, MS; four nieces; seven nephews; and a host of uncles, aunts, cousins, and friends.