Sonja Deneen Drayton, known lovingly to family and friends as Sonja, passed away on August 3, 2026, in Macon, Georgia, at the age of 61. She was born on October 5, 1964, in Dothan, Alabama, and lived a life marked by love, strength, and devotion to the people who meant the most to her.
Sonja was a loving woman whose presence brought warmth and honesty to those around her. She was known for speaking her mind, for caring deeply for her family, and for the way she made her love known through both her words and her actions. She had a strong spirit and a kind heart, and she will be remembered for the many ways she showed up for the people she loved. Her family and friends will always remember her as someone who was genuine, caring, and full of life.
Sonja found joy in the simple and meaningful things in life. She was a fireball, voiced her opinions without hesitation, and took pride in cooking and cleaning. Most of all, she cherished being with her family. Time spent with her loved ones was among her greatest treasures, and she valued those moments deeply. She was also known for her forgiving nature, which reflected the grace and compassion that were part of her character. These interests and qualities helped shape the loving memory she leaves behind.
She is survived by her daughter, Cledie Drayton; her son, Kareem Drayton; her grandchildren, Tyveon Jarbari, Ty’quan Tharp, Keyona Johnson, Jeremiah Drayton, Jerry Drayton, and Joy Hill; and her great-grandchildren, Harlee Thomas and Haydyn Tharp. She is also survived by her siblings, Prency Poke Taylor and her husband Wayne, Paula Drayton, Joseph Drayton, Anthony Pierce and his wife Linda, and LaShawn Pierce. She leaves behind her favorite nephew, Travis Poke, along with several other nieces and nephews who will cherish her memory.
Sonja was preceded in death by her son, Jerry Drayton; her siblings, Sheila Pierce and Phyllis Poke; and her parents, Joseph and Annie Mae Drayton. Though her passing leaves a deep void, her family takes comfort in knowing that she is reunited with those who went before her.
Her life was a reflection of love, resilience, and family devotion. Sonja Deneen Drayton will be remembered for her loving nature, her honesty, her strength, and the lasting impact she had on those blessed to know her. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, siblings, extended family, and all who loved her.
A celebration of Sonja’s life will be held on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at 1 pm in the Sunset Funeral Home Chapel. The family will receive friends from 12-1 pm prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery.
Sunset Memorial Park Funeral Home (334) 983-6604 www.SunsetMemorialPark.com
