James C. “Sonny” Sones, Jr., age 85, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, in Poplarville, Mississippi. Born on January 4, 1940, in McNeil, Mississippi, he grew up on the family farm where he later raised his own family and lived all his life—a place that shaped him and remained his greatest source of purpose and peace. He was preceded in death by his parents, James Carl Sones, Sr. and Ethel Wells Sones.
Sonny is survived by his devoted wife of 56 years, Celecia Burge Sones; his children, Susan Sones Wheat (Michael) of McNeil and James Aaron Sones of Atlanta; grandchildren Leighton Cheramie (Brianna) of Carriere and Courtney Spence (Jordan) of Flowood; and great-grandchildren Blair and Wren Cheramie. He is also survived by his sister, Martha Anne Megehee (Jacob) of Macon, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who loved him dearly.
A lifelong educator, Sonny dedicated his career to helping students find purpose and opportunity through technical education. He earned degrees from Pearl River Community College, Mississippi State University, and a doctorate from Colorado State University. He taught in the public school system prior to serving for many years as an administrator in the vocational-technical education department at Pearl River Community College. He played a key role in launching and overseeing the Hancock County and Lamar County vocational-technical education programs, opening doors for countless students across South Mississippi. His work touched thousands of lives, guiding men and women toward meaningful careers and better futures.
Sonny was a lifelong member of Sones Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, where he once taught Sunday school and faithfully supported the church community. He also served his community through the USDA Farm Service Agency, the Pearl River County Soil and Water Conservation District, the Pearl River County Utility Authority, the Poplarville Rotary Club, SACSCOC, and the Mississippi Cattlemen’s Association. He was also a lifetime member of the Association for Career and Technical Education (formerly called the American Vocational Association).
A hardworking man in every sense, Sonny continued tending the family farm well into retirement. Whether working cattle, maintaining the land, or simply riding his tractor across the fields he loved, the farm was where he felt most at home. He was also a steadfast supporter of Mississippi State football, despite always predicting a 1–11 season.
Above all, Sonny valued faith, family, hard work, and service. His legacy lives on in the countless students he encouraged, the community he strengthened, and the family and friends who adored him.
Visitation will be held at White Funeral Home on Sunday, November 23, from 1:00–3:00 p.m. A graveside service will follow at 4:00 p.m. at Sones Chapel Baptist Church Cemetery officiated by Elder Gary Sumrall and Elder Jesse Johnson.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Sones Chapel Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, PO Box 602, McNeil, MS 39457.
