Barbara Ann "Babs" Sonner

Barbara Ann "Babs" Emmert Sonner, age 94, died on Tuesday, March 10th, 2026, in New Orleans. She passed away at Ochsner Baptist Hospital after spending several days there, with her son by her side.

Babs was born in Zanesville, Ohio on January 9th, 1932. She was educated at St Aloysius Academy for Girls in Lexington, Ohio until 8th grade, and graduated from Rosary High School in Columbus, Ohio in 1949. She then attended Hardbarger Business College, earning a secretarial degree.

Her childhood was marred by circumstances that lead to her placement at St Vincent's Orphanage in Columbus, Ohio from 1940 to 1945. As a child there, she was athletic, excelling at girls' softball and basketball. Discouraged from playing sports because she was a girl, she then focused on ballet after winning a scholarship at a local dance studio. During these childhood years, Babs also spent time with several foster families. She later benefitted from the love and compassion shown to her by Rosella and Dick Barr of Columbus, Ohio. She would remember the Barrs' kindness for the rest of her life.

While swimming at the Sciota Country Club pool with the Barrs, she met the lifeguard and her future husband, William "Bill" Sonner, Sr. They were married in 1951. Bill had enlisted in the US Marine Corps, and they made their first home at the base in Cherry Point, North Carolina. After being honorably discharged, Bill enrolled in the master's program at North Carolina State University in Raleigh. Following his graduation, they made Raleigh their permanent home. Babs had a series of secretarial jobs over the years, and their only child, William Henry Sonner, Jr. was born in 1956.

During her time as a young wife and mother, she was able to channel a love for animals into training show poodles and riding horses.

She and Bill divorced in 1971. She later moved to Fort Pierce, Florida and ultimately West Palm Beach, where she spent many happy years living at Lucerne Point senior living community amongst several dear friends, including her former sisters-in-law and their husbands. Although she and Bill were no longer married, they remained on friendly terms when he visited his family.

Her son relocated her to New Orleans in 2018 when her health and mobility took a downward turn. She resided in New Orleans until her death.

She was preceded in death by her parents. Ann Katherine Spinks and Paul Gerard Emmert. Barbara is survived by her son William Henry Sonner, Jr. (Michael Gallaugher).

Arrangements are being handled by Jacob Schoen & Son Funeral Home of New Orleans. A private family celebration will be held at a later date.