While at home surrounded by her loving family, Sonja Marie Hunt was reunited in Heaven with her parents and beloved dog Ginger in September 2018. Less than three months earlier, she had been diagnosed with Stage IV cancer. Despite protests from her family, she wanted to finish teaching the rest of the school year even though she was battling to get ahead of her health issues. Unfortunately, the disease and doctors took their toll and forced Sonja to retire from the career she loved much earlier than she planned.

During her 29 years as a teacher, Sonja taught countless students and guided them to do their best.  She was frequently nominated for “Teacher of the Year”; winning twice. She was actually the first teacher to receive the honor as a non-tenured teacher in her district. Additionally, she received multiple grants for programs that she initiated in the district, many of which continue to this day. Sonja’s passion for education continued through her involvement in Delta Kappa Gamma International Society of Women Educators and through advising the Student Council for many years.

Outside of school, Sonja loved going to the beach. She spent countless hours collecting seashells, sea glass, and enjoying everything about the ocean. A lifelong interest in photography brought her to Instagram, where she loved sharing nature pictures with her 1000+ followers. She liked going on adventures, visiting unique places, and traveling to new destinations. Her excitement about the world was contagious.

Sonja was a loving and devoted wife, mother, sister, aunt, niece, and friend to many. She enjoyed hosting family and friends for every holiday, where her laugh would fill the room. Every moment was special and she never asked for anything in return. Sonja will be missed more than words could ever express.

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Before she passed away, her son Stephen spoke to her about starting the Sonja M. Hunt Education Foundation to honor her lifelong passion for education. The idea made her smile. Although it is bittersweet, the family knows that there is no better way to honor her than to help students gain a solid academic foundation. Education mattered so much to her.