Sonia R. Matthews

Sonia R. Matthews, 69, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 2, 2026, surrounded by family. Born on June 12, 1956, in Corpus Christi, Texas, to Roberto C. and Lorenza R. Rodriguez, Sonia was a natural caregiver from the start. As the eldest daughter, she stepped proudly into the role of a "second mother" to her siblings, a testament to the massive heart that would define her life. She grew up in Wattsonville, where she worked in the fields and picked strawberries and other fruits.

A proud graduate of West Oso High School, Sonia began her career at Spohn Memorial before finding her calling in the pharmaceutical field. As a Certified Pharmacy Technician, she served the Veterans’ Affairs and Walgreens Pharmacies with a legendary work ethic. Her colleagues affectionately nicknamed her the "Tasmanian Devil" because she worked with such incredible speed and dedication.

Beyond her professional achievements, Sonia was a woman of deep faith and community - the best mother, grandmother, wife, and friend. She served as a devoted C.C.D. teacher for many years at Our Lady of Pilar Catholic Church. Her home was a sanctuary—the doors were always open, the stove was always on, and she was always ready to offer a listening ear or a warm meal.

Sonia’s children and grandchildren were her entire world. She never missed an awards assembly or a game, forever serving as their loudest cheerleader and biggest fan. Her joy for life was infectious; when she cooked or cleaned, the house was filled with music and dancing. In quieter moments, she found peace at the beach collecting shells or painting her beloved angels, animals, and garden figurines. She had a special fondness for turtles and a gift for making every family gathering feel like a celebration where everyone felt welcome and at home.

Sonia is survived by her husband, Frank M. Matthews; her children, Marc A. Fernandez and Adrianna (Kirstie J. Medina) Fernandez; her siblings, Roberto (Jesusa) Rodriguez Jr. and family, Juan G. Rodriguez, Moises (Mary) Rodriguez and family, Noe Rodriguez, Adam Rodriguez, Martha (James) Rodriguez, and Linda J. Benavides and family; and her cherished grandchildren, Micah, Amaziah, Demarco, Bishop, Marc Jr., and Marianna. She also leaves behind many close nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Roberto and Lorenza; her sister, Aida R. Lopez; and her brothers, Apolonio and Manuel Rodriguez.