Sonja Lee Ellis

Sonja Lee Ellis was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister and friend, she passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her daughters and sister on July 1, 2025, at the age of 67 after courageously battling Stage 4 lung cancer. 

Born in Youngstown, Ohio to Charles and June Larson, Sonja carried the warmth of her midwest roots throughout her life. She was strong-willed and very independent, a hippie at heart who loved everybody she met, spreading joy and acceptance wherever she went.

Sonja found her greatest happiness in simple pleasures of life. She loved being outdoors, soaking up the sun in her garden where she nurtured both plants and dreams. Her passion for mosaic art reflected her beautiful spirit -- taking individual pieces and creating something magnificent, just as she did with the lives she touched. 

She is survived by her three beautiful daughters, Ashley, Michelle, and Natalie who were the light of her life. Her legacy continues through her beloved grandchildren, Aiden Sturgeon, Tarion, Torrence and Jazzlynn Thornton who brought endless joy to her days. She is also survived by her son-in-law, Tarion Thornton; her siblings, Ruth Larson, Lars Larson, David Larson and their children.

Sonja is reunited in heaven with her beloved sister, Linda West; her brother, Kel Larson; her parents, June and Charles Larson, her cherished companions cat, Snickers and dog, Izzy, and the girls' beloved father, James Ellis, along with others who have passed away before her.

Like the mosaic art she loved to create, her life was a masterpiece made of countless moments of love, laughter and kindness. Her free spirit, generous heart and unconditional love for everyone she encountered will forever be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, July 12, 2025 from Noon-2:00 p.m. at Stark Memorial Funeral Home located at 1014 East State Street, Salem, 44460. Celebration of Life Service will begin promptly at 2:00 p.m.. All are welcome to join her family in honoring the beautiful life of Sonja Ellis and carry on her remaining memories together.

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