Sonya Sweat Johnston

She was preceded in death by her parents, Bill F. and Sadie Sweat; and one sister, Sylvia. She is survived by her husband, August Johnston; her children, Christopher and his wife Kelly, Carol and her husband Steve; her grandchildren Ethan and Jack; and three siblings – Sharon, Sam, and Ray.

Sonya was born on February 23, 1935 in Lake City, Florida. She graduated from the University of Florida with a degree in Elementary Education and taught for several years. She took graduate course work which led to her position as a Reading Specialist.

After the birth of her children, Sonya “retired” to be a full-time mother and homemaker. She continued serving in her local church, taught Sunday School, and became an Elder in her Presbyterian home church. She enjoyed her community garden club and the friendly competition among her local Bridge groups.

After August retired, Sonya and he were able to invest more in their favorite activity – spending time with friends and family. Friendships grew deeper, family members grew closer, and the grandchildren grew up. Sonya was particularly proud of her grandsons – Ethan at JMU and Jack at Virginia Tech.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, March 25 from 7:00 to 8:30 at the Woody Funeral Home at 1020 Huguenot Road in Midlothian, Virginia. A memorial service will be held at the same location on Sunday, March 26 at 3:00PM. Sonya will be interred at the Virginia Veterans Cemetery in Amelia.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Sonya’s memory to the Salvation Army, one of her favorite charities.