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Sonia Renee Stultz Dalton, 56, passed away on Tuesday, March 15, 2022, after an 18- month battle with cancer surrounded by family at her home in Salisbury, NC. She was born on February 17, 1966, in Columbus, GA and lived most of her life in the Salisbury/China Grove area.
Sonia was a devoted teacher in the Rowan County School System and taught at China Grove Elementary School for the entirety of her 22-year career as an educator. She loved her job, her school, and her coworkers and told fond memories of teaching her students until the end. Sonia’s greatest joys were being with family, nature, animals, listening to live music, dancing, and appreciating all of God’s creations. Sonia was an eternally positive, fun-loving, care-free and kindhearted person with strong faith. She was a selfless partner who loved her children with all of her heart. Sonia enjoyed daily calls with her mother and common fun gatherings with her sisters and friends. She lived life joyfully, loved relentlessly, and made a difference in the lives of many. Her best friend, Jesus Christ, carried her through the beautiful 56 years she spent on this Earth and now she is praising Him for eternity.
In addition to her mother and father, Annette and Gary Burleson, she is survived by her children, who she commonly called her pride and joy, Alexandria Cress, Colby Cress, and Courtney Corriher (stepdaughter) and family (James, Aiden, Ava); her beloved Stephen Storm and his children (Savannah, Skip, and Spencer); her sister Tina Burleson and family (Nathan, Niall and Dylan Schepker); her sister Tiffany Vinson (James aka Junior); and her pets Alvin, Gizmo and Lilly.
Sonia was preceded in death by her biological father, Ray Stultz, and many adored pets.
Sonia did not want a funeral with people crying and wearing black. She instead wanted a celebration of her life filled with happy memories, pretty colors, and positivity. In honor of Sonia’s wishes, there will be an informal, joyful Celebration of Life gathering on Saturday, March 19 th , from 2-5pm at Mt. Zion United Church of Christ, 1415 S. Main St., China Grove, NC 28023.
Carolina Cremation of Salisbury and Charlotte is assisting Sonia’s family. Online condolences may be made at www.carolinacremation.com. We welcome flowers and plants as Sonia loved beautiful things. We also know that Sonia would love donations to go to her cherished school, China Grove Elementary School, https://www.rssed.org/cges, 514 S Franklin St, China Grove, NC 28023, 919-857-7708. Checks can be written to CGES with “Sonia Strong Fund” in the memo line. We will have a donation box at the celebration Saturday. Donations can also be sent via Venmo to “Sonia Strong” and 100% of those donations will go to China Grove Elementary School.
Dick and Ginny Storm says
Sonia truly did bring joy and smiles whenever we were together with her. Her concern for the loved ones around her was clearly visible and she was selfless and loving in all respects. She brought great happiness to our son Stephen and they made a very happy couple together. We will miss her and we wish God’s Blessings for her Family.
Anita and Bob Schepker says
This lovely obituary above describes Sonia beautifully. She had such a kind and caring presence and an unshakable optimism. Her love of nature, music and the world around her along with her profound faith in God was amazing and uplifting. Her strength and bravery and unshakable faith during her illness was an inspiration to us all. We are so blessed to have gotten to know Sonia. She made a difference to so many and spread joy to those around her. May she rest in peace in God’s presence. Our deepest sympathy and prayers for her family for God’s comfort.
Robert and Kimberly Burr says
To Stephen, Savannah, Skip, Spencer and Sonia’s family.
You all are in our thoughts and prayers, not just today; but in the days ahead.
Gerrie Blackwelder says
Annette,
My heart breaks for you and your family, though I know Sonia is healed and healthy with a loving Lord. Please know that I think of you and Tiffany as you walk this new path.
J L Gardner says
My deepest regrets for your loss. May God bless and give you peace and strength.
JOHN AND MAE MANNING says
To Sonia’s children and family.
We were saddened to hear of Sonia’s passing, but at the same time we rejoice because she is no longer in pain. Sonia’s life was filled with her love for her family, her friends, and her students and she made a tremendous positive impact on all those who knew her. I’m reminded of the apostle Paul when he spoke of his impending departure in 2 Timothy 4:7, “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith”. I know that Sonia is in the presence of her Savior, Jesus, and has received her crown of righteousness for the testimony and witness that she was to the power of the only One that sustained her through her battles here on earth!
Bob Wood says
Annette, Gary, Tiffany, Tina and the rest of your family, My prayers are with y’all‼️ Sonia made an impression on many people and was an inspiration to many students!! She loved her being a teacher, was a very caring person, loved her family and will be remembered in many positive ways by many people. God bless y’all!!
Kim Bui says
You are in my heart Sonia! You always bring charming and happiness and kindness to everybody ! I am tearing to hearing about this ! This is shock for me and I am praying you are in heaven and always happiness and smiles on your face !!! 🙏🙏🙏
Brannon, Steve says
Annette,
Please know that my prayers and thoughts are always for God’s comfort and care for you and your family, especially now as you find strength in the great love you share with your beloved Sonia.
In sadness, Steve Brannon