Sonya Jean McIlvain's Obituary
Sonya Jean McIlvain of Springboro, Ohio passed away January 8th, 2023, at the age of 69. She was born on January 17, 1953. She grew up, graduated high school (Class of ‘71), and spent a large portion of her life in Beavercreek, Ohio where she made lifelong best friends and raised her daughter. She worked more than 40 years for Avery Denison (formerly Monarch Marketing Systems/Paxar). She was proceeded in death by her father and mother, Jack and Betty Ray and her sister, Cindy Keller. Sonya’s passing has our family fondly remembering how wonderful and special the Ray Family was not only in the Beavercreek community but to their family. They taught us many things, but one which stands out is unconditional love. Sonya is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Natalie and Ryan Henke, and her grandchildren, Camden and Cooper, her former husband and friend, Richard McIlvain (and family), her brother-in-law, Phil. Keller, her niece Shana Drew (and family), and her nephew Terry Doyle (and family).
Sonya had a zest for life. She loved flowers, books, spending time outside barefoot and daydreaming about travel. She made plans for what she wanted to do to her house and had lists of things she thought would be ‘neat’ to do or see. She was a strong-willed woman, who did life her way. She was a fighter. She was a doer and a pusher; told her family often they could be and do anything they wanted in this life and all the while she cheered them on. She was supportive, kind and had a smile that could light up a room. She loved her daughter, who also turned into a best friend, and grandchildren more than anything. She spent her last years being present in their lives and would give them the world if she could.
Sonya wishes to spend eternity among the seas, so her ashes will be spread in Siesta Key at a later date. Friends and loved ones can remember her next time you visit a beach or are digging in your garden with the sun shining down, she will be there. In lieu of flowers, please consider becoming an organ donor, or contributing to Lifeline of Ohio (https://lifelineofohio-bloom.kindful.com/ ). Organ donation gave her one more year to reconnect with friends and spend time with her daughter, son-in-law, and grandchildren.
“Sweet Darling, if there is ever a tomorrow when we are not together there is something you must always remember: you are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think, but most important of all, even if we are apart, I’ll always be with you. xoxo” Winnie the Pooh
What’s your fondest memory of Sonya?
What’s a lesson you learned from Sonya?
Share a story where Sonya's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Sonya you’ll never forget.
How did Sonya make you smile?