Sonny "Big Sonny" Herring Sr.

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Mr. Sonny "Big Sonny" Herring Sr.
Sonny "Big Sonny" Herring Sr. was born on January 23, 1951, in Cairo, Georgia, Sonny was the cherished son of the late Cummie Herring and Donnie Mae Herring. From his earliest days, Sonny carried a quiet strength and a generous spirit that would define his journey through life.
In 1969, Sonny married the love of his life, Minister Gladys Marie Herring, and to that union, four children were born. Together, they built a home filled with love, laughter, and faith. Sonny's devotion to his family was unwavering, and his role as husband and father was one, he cherished deeply.
Sonny's walk with Christ began when he joined Glorious Church of God in Havana, Florida, under the nurturing leadership of the late Elder Bessie "Mom" Williams. His faith was not just professed-it was lived. After Pastor Williams' passing, Sonny continued his spiritual journey under the guidance of his sister-in-law, Pastor Annie Sherman, remaining a steadfast and devoted member of the church.
Known affectionately as "Big Sonny", he was a pillar of the congregation-faithful, hardworking, and always ready to serve. Whether it was lending a hand during services or organizing fellowship events, Big Sonny's commitment to the church was unwavering. Alongside his beloved wife, he brought joy and togetherness to the community through summer cookouts and Sunday dinners, creating spaces where love and laughter were shared freely.
Big Sonny had a passion for cooking and feeding people. He was a master of the kitchen, often crafting dishes and drinks with secret recipes known only to him. His culinary creations were legendary among family and friends, and his hospitality was unmatched.
Outside the kitchen, Big Sonny found peace and purpose in nature. He loved to hunt, fish, and beautify yards. What began as a lawn service inherited from his late father-in-law, Phil Vickers, blossomed into a thriving business-his own brand of lawn care, built with hard work, faith, and the help of God.
Sonny was also a die-hard football fan, loyal to both the Florida State Seminoles and the Georgia Bulldogs. He attended as many games as he could, and when he couldn't be there in person, you could count on him being glued to his recliner on game day, cheering with passion and pride. His love for the game was infectious, and his game-day spirit was a tradition all its own.
But Big Sonny's true gift was his heart for people. He was known for giving others a second chance, often employing those who struggled to find work and teaching them the trade and art of lawn care. He believed in redemption, in growth, and in the power of community.
He also loved to share life experiences with the younger generation, always ready with a story, a lesson, or a bit of wisdom. Though humble by nature, Big Sonny was a man of many words when he felt comfortable enough to talk. And when he spoke, people listened-because his words carried weight, warmth, and truth.
He Leaves to Cherish His Memory, four sons, Sonny Herring Jr., Jonathan R. Herring (Lakisha), Al P. Herring (Jennifer) and Michael Williams; special granddaughter: Tequila Herring, whom he lovingly raised as his own; three sisters-in-law, Pastor Annie R. Vickers Sherman (Johnnie), Leola Maddox (Ocie) and Mary Vickers Lee; grandchildren, Miya Herring, Shontavius Herring Sr., Arcardio T. Herring Sr., Sonny J. Herring, Telvin Herring, Durante Herring, Ashunti Herring, Jada Herring, Jayla Herring, Aden Jones, Philip Smith, De'Aldrick Jones, Amiracle Herring, Jena N. Herring and Taj Ali; daughter-in-love, Amanda Gay Herring; 23 beautiful great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins and friends who were touched by his love and generosity.
He Was Preceded in Death By His beloved wife, Minister Gladys Herring; his daughter, Jena M. Herring; sister, Geneva Swain; two brothers, Jon Herring and James Herring; three brothers -in-law, James O. Swain, Ray Vickers, Henry Vickers, Sr., and Elijah Vickers Sr.
Graveside service will be 11:00 A.M. Saturday, October 25, 2025 at Crestview Cemetery, US Highway 84 East, Cairo, GA 39828.