Obituaries

Absolute legend of a person. Salt of the earth. If the world was full of Sonny Donaldson’s we’d be better off as a civilization. My grandpap worked with Sonny at the phone company. They were pioneers installing lines to the rural communities throughout West Virginia. You will be missed. Rest in Ever Peace

Posted by shawn bragg on September 23, 2026

I went to Washington Irving High School with Sonny. He was always a dear person, and I enjoyed staying in touch with him throughout the years and seeing him at reunions. He was larger than life and will be dearly missed. I am so sorry for your loss.

Posted by Kay Lawson Adair on September 19, 2026

I met Sonny when he worked for C&P with my dad, Dave Curry. In later years when dad was gone he and Terri were so kind to include mom and Annette to MSG for a fun WVU Basketball adventure. That is a great memory for mom. Prayers for peace for all the family re the loss of such a kind memorable guy.

Posted by Mary Jane Rinard on September 13, 2026

Our hearts and prayers go out to the entire Sheddrick "Sonny Donaldson" family! What a wonder cousin and friend! I will mis his text messages and phone calls (so nice)! He is already missed and will be missed forever. How can you not miss him!!! HALWAYS had the warmest, friendliest, loving demeanor and personality and don't forget the beautiful smile! Mom saw him as her nephew and a brother as they were only 5 years apart. Sonny was born 10 days after moms 5th birthday. While she is grieving, she wants the family to know that she will truly miss, your husband, father and grandfather dearly! We love you all so much!

Posted by Lisa Horton on September 10, 2026

I can’t remember the first Donaldson/ Porter family reunion Bill and I attended. But I do remember the warmth of Sonny’s conversations and his sincere love for all of those around him each time we were together. Our hearts are sad. We pray that you all will hold each other as you journey through this grief. Bill and Gwen Gibson

Posted by Bill and Gwen Gibson on September 9, 2026

I will always remember Sonny’s warm smile a big heart. Lots of love to the family.

Posted by April Cukic on September 9, 2026

I first met Sonny while playing in a softball game at Norwood Park in 1973. He always had a smile on his face and something good to say. Anytime I seen him over the years he was the same, smiling ! A true gentlemen both on and off the field. Rest in peace my friend.

Posted by Brad Edgell on September 9, 2026

Our heart and Prayers go out to My Cousin Sonny's Family at this difficult time. He will truly be missed may Peace and Blessings be with you all 🙏🏿.

Posted by Jethro & Lateria Horton family on September 9, 2026

Terri and family there are no words 💔 just tears 😢

Posted by Ilene on September 8, 2026

The Bible reminds up, “To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.” (Isiah 57:1) Sonny was one of my favorite cousins. Growing up, we always looked forward to his visits to Birmingham. He was that kind of cousin. We spent the last year in deep competition over on-line Solitaire. I am glad I got to see him at the family reunion in 2025. May God grant you peace that transcends all understanding.

Posted by Dr Deborah Godwin-Starks on September 8, 2026

My father, Sugar Vincent worked with Sonny for 30 years at the phone company. He considered him a good friend. May they meet again in heaven.

Posted by Sandy Vincent-Dinzeo on September 7, 2026

Terri: My thoughts and I prayers are with you during this most difficult period. Sonny was a great husband, father, grandfather and a great friend who knew this fine man. One of the finest men I have ever had the pleasure to know and call a forever friend. God bless and watch over Terri and all of the Donaldson family.l Hugh Gainer and family.

Posted by Hugh Gainer on September 6, 2026

So so sorry to hear about Sonny’s passing..He will be missed by our family as my family has always loved him, he was a sweet gentle person. You will be missed Sonny♥️and always remembered….♥️ Bari Bailey and Norris Raiford

Posted by Bari Bailey on September 6, 2026

I am saddened to hear of Sonny's passing. My memories of him are from the 1980's. One day he came to the bowling alley to practice. There were no open lanes, so I invited him to practice with me. We became good friends. I know he will be missed by many.

Posted by Anonymous on September 6, 2026

My condolences to Sonny's family. I will always remember your kindness, and how we always respected you and were proud of you.

Posted by Sharon Bailey Hood on September 5, 2026

I will never forget Sonny. I started baby sitting his children when I was a young teen and he made an impression on me then as being a fine distinguished man. He always greeted me with kindness and live whenever he saw me. He danced with me at The Black Heritage Festival which I will never forget. He will always be remembered fondly. My condolences to Terry and all the family. 🙏🏾♥️❤️

Posted by Adrian Bailey on September 5, 2026

Sonny had a way about him very few poses. He brighten up a room by just merly walking in to it. Gonna miss him. My heart goes out to his family!

Posted by Rocko on September 5, 2026

Oh, no! Terri and family, I am so very sorry for your loss. Sonny was truly a wonderful, kind and caring man. Please know that Michael and I are sending loving thoughts your way. May your memories help to ease the unbearable grief. 💔 -- Kathy Parks

Posted by Kathleen Parks on September 5, 2026

Heartfelt 💙condolences to the entire Donaldson family. Mr Sonny was truly a wonderful friend to our whole family and we will miss him dearly. He is with the Lord for sure 🙏! We will keep you in prayer. God Bless and keep you 🙏 Much Love The Starks Family

Posted by Twanna Starks Weatherspoon on September 4, 2026

My condolences to all the family. Sonny was such a sweet person. He went to school with my dad, Donald Godwin at WI.

Posted by Amy Godwin Lindsey on September 4, 2026

So sorry to hear this,he was always a great guy RIP

Posted by Tucker Brunetti on September 4, 2026

Jessica, I am so sorry for your loss. My sincere condolences to you and your family!! 🙏🏾❤️ Jennifer Twyman

Posted by Jennifer Twyman on September 4, 2026

Rest peacefully, Sonny. 🕊️❤️ I will always cherish the memories I have of you and remember what a wonderful man you were. You loved my sister Terri deeply and were an amazing father to Angela and Jessica. No matter the distance or time that has passed, those memories will always have a special place in my heart. You were truly one of the good ones, Sonny. Rest well. ❤️🙏🏽

Posted by Rhonda Elder Patterson on September 4, 2026

My condolences. I have fond memories of riding motorcycles with Sonny and Ed Martin in the early 70’s when we were a lot younger.

Posted by David K. McCartney on September 4, 2026

My condolences. I have fond memories of riding motorcycles with Sonny and Ed Martin in the early 70’s when we were a lot younger.

Posted by David K. McCartney on September 4, 2026