Sonya Dickens

Sonya Darcel Hooker Dickens, age 71, of 2410 Lourance Blvd., peacefully transitioned on Friday, January 16, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., surrounded by the love of her family in the comfort of her home.

Born on October 13, 1954, in Sanford, Lee County, North Carolina, Sonya was the cherished youngest of thirteen children born to the late Carl David Hooker and Marie Guthrie. As the baby of the family, she was adored, protected, and thoroughly spoiled by her older siblings. Sonya's childhood was filled with laughter, family gatherings, and treasured memories spent at her grandmother's home, where cousins and kin created bonds that would last a lifetime. Though soft-spoken by nature, Sonya possessed a quiet strength and confidence-she knew her mind, spoke up when needed, and lived life unapologetically on her own terms.

Sonya attended Wicker Elementary School and later graduated from Sanford Central High School in 1972. Her dedication and determination carried her to North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University, where she proudly earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing. While at NC A&T, Sonya met the love of her life, Curtis Andrew Dickens. The two became college sweethearts, encouraging one another as they pursued their dreams side by side.

On April 15, 1978, Sonya and Curtis were united in holy matrimony at Mount Sinai United Holy Church in a beautiful celebration filled with joy, family, and friends-an occasion Sonya truly delighted in. Their marriage soon led them on a grand adventure when Curtis joined the United States Army. Together, they traveled and lived throughout Europe for over 3 years, creating unforgettable memories while exploring Germany, France, Italy, The Netherlands and beyond. Family members fondly recall Curtis's stylish Saab purchased in Germany, with Sonya riding proudly by his side. Their union spanned nearly 48 loving years.

One of Sonya's most cherished memories came during their time in Europe with the birth of their only child, Olivia Marie Dickens, on December 23, 1982. In a story often shared with laughter, Olivia made her entrance sooner than expected-arriving mid-air over Frankfurt, Germany as Sonya was being transported by helicopter. Olivia became the joy of Sonya's life, and she devoted herself wholeheartedly to motherhood, nurturing her daughter's passions for ballet, writing, and media with unwavering love and support.

Sonya's nurturing spirit extended far beyond her immediate family. She was a beloved aunt whose home was often filled with nieces and nephews during summer breaks. "Aunt Sonya" made sure everyone felt welcomed, cared for, and well-fed, especially during the lively family cookouts she and Curtis loved to host.

Her heart expanded even more when she became "Grandma." Sonya was overjoyed at the birth of her grandson, JoSeth "JoJo" Alexander McQueen, on May 22, 2008. The bond between Grandma and JoJo was extraordinary-filled with library storytimes, school drop-offs, afternoons watching Judge Judy, and loud cheers at basketball games. Sonya was JoJo's biggest fan, whether helping with homework or celebrating his accomplishments.

Until her final days, Sonya remained a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. Even as her health declined, she continued caring for her home, supporting her family, attending gatherings, and enjoying time with friends. She found comfort and joy in reading and watching her favorite Ted Turner classic movies. Sonya's life was one of quiet strength, deep love, and steadfast devotion, and she will be remembered with affection and gratitude by all who knew her.

Sonya was preceded in death by her brothers Samuel Hooker, Carl Hooker Jr., and Wayne Sr. Hooker, and her sisters Ida Mae Hooker, Jennifer Hooker, Geraldine Seymour, and Esther Street.

She leaves to cherish her memory and celebrate her life: her loving husband, Curtis Andrew Dickens of the home; her daughter, Olivia Dickens of Reidsville, NC; her grandson, JoSeth McQueen; her sister, Imogene Hooker of New York, NY; her brothers, Winford Hooker (Karen) of Silver Spring, MD, Tyrone Hooker of Sanford, NC, Ronald Hooker (Jackie) of Winston-Salem, NC, and Donald Hooker (Pam) of Sanford, NC; her best friend, Shirley Jones; and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.