Sonya Ann Sweeten, known by her preferred name Sonya, peacefully passed away on November 5, 2023, at the age of 82 in Muncie, Indiana. She was born on February 15, 1941, in Anderson, South Carolina, to her late parents William Clyde Lankford and Hazel Katherine Spangler.

Sonya was a remarkable woman who dedicated her life to serving others. She was always actively involved in her church (Compass Church of Selma), where she volunteered at the church pantry and led a women's Bible study group. Sonya's faith was evident in her acts of kindness and compassion. She mentored children at Selma Elementary School and hosted funeral dinners, providing comfort and support to those in need.

One of Sonya's passions was her involvement in World Vision's Shoe Box Ministry. For many years, she participated in this program, bringing joy to children in need around the world. Sonya's commitment to making a difference extended beyond borders, as she also went on missionary trips to Belize and India, spreading love and hope to those she met.

In her free time, Sonya enjoyed various hobbies. She was an accomplished seamstress and took great pleasure in sewing. Sonya's talent was evident as she made matching dresses for herself and her two daughters when they were young. Additionally, she had a green thumb and loved gardening. Sonya and her late husband Dennis grew their own vegetables, which she would then can and freeze. She also had a passion for painting portraits and cherished the memories of camping trips with her entire family.

Sonya's memory will forever be treasured by her loved ones. She is survived by her two sisters, Sylvia Yvonne Posey and Carol Jean Kern, her daughter Kathy Ann Romero, and her niece Tina Michelle Hollowell. She is also survived by her four grandchildren, Amanda Jean Olsen, Mathew Allen Anacker, William Allen Brooks II, and Christopher Michael Brooks, as well as her four great-grandchildren, Sierra Rose Brooks, Corbin Michael Anacker, Dexter Bryan Anacker, and Chandler Trent Olson. Sonya is further survived by her great-niece Siaira Dawn Hollowell and great-nephew Traceton Scott Hollowell. She was preceded in death by her husband Dennis Bryan Sweeten, her son Dennis Randolph Sweeten, her daughter Julia Marie Anacker, and her nephew William Frogge.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Alzheimer's Research Foundation in honor of Sonya's memory. The family would like to extend their gratitude to Garden View Funeral Home in Muncie, Indiana, for their assistance during this difficult time.

Visitation will take place from 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM and the funeral service will begin at 1:00 PM, with burial following at Gardens of Memory Cemetery.

Sonya Ann Sweeten will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her legacy of love, faith, and kindness will continue to inspire and touch the lives of many.