Sonya affectionately known as "Neaky" was born on July 26, 1959 in Jacksonville, Florida to the late Arthur James Taylor and Hattie Lee Taylor. She graduated from Paxon Senior High School, Class of 1977.  Sonya attended Jacksonville University and at the age of 20, she joined the United States Air Force. While in the Air Force, Sonya pursued a career as an Electrical Craftsman with a high security clearance. After serving on active duty for 20 years, she retired and settled in Warner Robins, Georgia and finally came home to Jacksonville, Florida in 2015.

 As a youth Sonya attended Asbury United Methodist Church where she sang in the Young Adult Choir.  She was the ultimate athlete as she enjoyed playing softball, basketball, volleyball, tennis and track in which she excelled. She was a woman of relentless passion for working with all types of electrical items and appliances. "If it’s broken, Neaky will fix it." 

Sonya was the epitome of a fine young woman in all aspects of her life. She has been loving and generous to all who knew her. Sonya was known for her infectious laugh, smile and her ability to love everyone unconditionally; no matter their faults. She was a gift from God to all who were privileged to have been apart of her life.  

Sonya departed this life on Wednesday, October 31, 2018 and she leaves to cherish her memories: her mother, Hattie Lee Taylor; daughter, Keanna Delreece Long; brothers, Renwick Taylor  (Brenda), Merlin Taylor, Wendell Taylor and Algie Taylor; sister, Retired Navy Chief, Monica Taylor; and a host of sorrowing aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

The funeral service for Sonya Delrease Long will be held 10AM Friday, November 9th, 2018 at the Greater St. Matthew Missionary Baptist Church‎ 649 Franklin Street. The visitation will be 5 - 7PM, Thursday, November 8th, 2018 at the mortuary 4315 North Main Street. Interment in Jacksonville National Cemetery. Please sign the family guest book @ www.tswarden.com. Arrangements in care of Tyrone S. Warden, FDIC, 4315 N. Main Street, 765-1234