

Sonia M. Mendez Franco, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great‑grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away surrounded by the love of her family. Her life was defined by quiet strength, deep compassion, and an unwavering devotion to the people she cherished most.
Born in Diria, Departamento de Granada, Nicaragua, to Isidro Franco and Ana Goussen, Sonia grew up as one of eight siblings, surrounded by the closeness, resilience, and deep family bonds that shaped her character. From this large and loving family, she was blessed with numerous nieces and nephews, each of whom held a special place in her heart.
Sonia married Eduardo Julio Mendez Obando, the love of her life, with whom she shared 52 years of marriage. Their partnership was one of devotion, perseverance, and deep mutual respect. Eduardo passed away in 2007, and Sonia carried his memory with her always, honoring their life together through the love she continued to give their family.
In 1986, Sonia came to the United States, where she courageously built a new beginning. With determination and hope, she created a life rooted in opportunity, hard work, and the desire to provide a brighter future for her family. Her journey became a testament to her strength, resilience, and unwavering love.
Sonia was the steady center of her family—offering guidance, comfort, and wisdom with a gentleness that made everyone feel seen and valued. Her warmth created a home where all were welcome, and her kindness touched countless lives.
Her greatest joy was her family. Sonia was the devoted mother of eight children: Jazmina Lucia (deceased), Eduardo Jose, Danilo, Erick (deceased), Harry, Mayra, Marlon, and Evelyn. She poured her heart into nurturing each of them, celebrating their triumphs, supporting them through challenges, and reminding them always of the power of unity and love.
She also welcomed her son‑in‑law Luis Oyola with warmth and affection, embracing him as part of the family she cherished so deeply. Sonia cared deeply for Migdalia, Eduardo’s companion, appreciating the kindness, support, and presence she brought into their family. She shared a close bond with Blanca, the mother of several of her grandchildren, valuing the role she played in the lives of the children Sonia adored. She also embraced Yamila, Harry’s companion. In addition, she warmly welcomed Allan, Evelyn’s fiancée, appreciating the companionship and support he brought to her daughter.
Sonia was blessed with seven grandchildren—Jazmina, Meylin, Amy, Madeline, Danilo (Danny), Erick Eduardo, and Matteo—each of whom brought her immense pride and joy. She was also the cherished great‑grandmother of eight great‑grandchildren: Jeandy, Isaias, Tian, Gabriela, Tai Jade (deceased), Kailynn, Alison, and Andre. They filled her days with light, laughter, and purpose, and her love will remain a guiding presence in their lives.
She is survived by her family, who will forever carry her love in their hearts. Though she is no longer physically with us, her spirit remains a guiding light—steady, comforting, and eternal.
Please join us in celebrating Sonia's life. Service details are listed below:
Visitation will be held at Caballero Rivero Westchester, 8200 Bird Road, Miami, FL 33155, on June 14, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 12:00 am.
Funeral Service will take place at St Benedict Catholic Church, 701 W 77th Street, Hialeah, FL 33014, US, on June 15, 2026, beginning at 10:00 am.
Committal Service will be held at Vista Memorial Gardens, 14200 NW 57th Avenue, Miami Lakes, FL 33014, US, on June 15, 2026, beginning at 11:30 am.
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