Sonya McCoy

Sonya Jaynee Cheatham McCoy was born on August 21, 1948, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, to the late James Edward Cheatham Sr. and the late Rosetta Garnet Cheatham. On January 31, 2026, Sonya peacefully entered eternal rest, comforted by the presence of her loving family.

Sonya grew up in a nurturing Christian home grounded in love, guidance, and strong family values. In her early walk of faith, her love of the Lord was evident as she would rise early eager to attend Sunday School and worship service. As a young adult, she became a member of Goodwin Memorial Baptist Church. In 1985, she joined Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church, where she faithfully served as a deaconess, usher board president, and was a former choir member.

Helping others came naturally to Sonya. She never hesitated to pause whatever she was doing to offer direction, support, or a kind word. She found joy in reading, playing bingo, and challenging herself with crossword and cryptogram puzzles. Her life was marked by kindness, encouragement, patience, good humor, and love.

Sonya graduated from William Penn High School in 1966. Years later, she furthered her education and graduated with honors from The Academy of Medical Arts and Business.

Sonya began her working years at Leftwich Store and later built a long and dedicated career with Bell Telephone, retiring after 28 years of service. Following her graduation from The Academy, she continued her professional journey with Bakare Associates and D&H Distributors.

In 1970, Sonya was united in holy matrimony with the late Willis E. McCoy, and their union was blessed with three children. Cherishing her memory while releasing her to eternal rest are her children: Carla L. (McCoy) Thompson, Martha "Marti" E. McCoy, and Steven W. McCoy; her son-in-law, Larry Thompson Jr.; her grandchildren: Shaquaè McCoy-Lewis, D'Andrè McCoy, Larry "Trè" Thompson III, Quincy McCoy, and Dayvonne Ricketts; and her great-grandchildren: Xier McCoy, Christyn Howard, and D'Arri Ricketts. 

She is also lovingly remembered by her siblings: Carla H. Phifer, G. Marlene Cheatham, James Edward Cheatham Jr., and Deborah A. Reaves; her brother-in-law, George C. Phifer; her devoted sisters-in-law, Jacquetta McCoy and Donna Cheatham; her aunt, Eddie Bell Thornton; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

With trust in God's eternal care, submitted by the Family

Please keep the family in your thoughts and prayers.