Sonja G. Arnold

Sonja Ginita Arnold was born on September 23, 1964, in Chicago, Illinois, to the late Herbert Wilson and Shirley Gates Wilson (who lovingly survives her). From her earliest days, Sonja radiated warmth and kindness. After graduating from Technical High School, she dedicated ten years to serving as a Correctional Officer at Patton State Correction Facility, always treating others with respect. Her journey brought her to Bowling Green, Kentucky, where she found faith and fellowship at Trinity Full Gospel Church. Sonja's heart was truly that of a servant-she was always ready to lend an ear, share wisdom about faith and health, and brighten any room with her genuine smile. She found joy in cooking delicious meals, styling hair, reminiscing with classic movies, and filling her home with music. Sonja was the embodiment of love-selfless to a fault, a devoted mother, daughter, sister, and friend. Her gentle spirit and beautiful smile will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.

On Saturday, January 3, 2026, Sonja's journey led her to a serene and everlasting place where joy knows no end. She is now reunited with loved ones who have gone before her-her father, Herbert Wilson; her grandparents, Velma and James Wilson, and Lexia & Ross Hatley; her aunts and uncle: Bettie Jean Arthur, Bessie Lee Parker, Ruby Jean Gilliam, Odessa Hewning, Roosevelt Gates, and Jennifer Wilson. Their spirits surely welcomed her with open arms.

Sonja's loving legacy continues to shine through her devoted daughter, Shirlisa Jackee Arnold-Kontoh (Peter Kojo Kontoh); her beloved mother, Shirley Temple Gates Wilson; sisters, Kimberly Wilson and Hermika Michelle Wilson; brothers, Herbert Michael Wilson and Keith Cornell Wilson; aunts and uncles, Ross Hatley Jr, Anthony Hatley, Wayne Hatley, Lorenzo Wilson, and Zenobia Ford; nephews, Adante' Wilson and Avondre' Collins; and a host of other relatives and lifelong friends who will remember her always with love and gratitude.

Sincerely,

-Your friends at Burnam and Son Mortuary