Sonya Cunningham

11 September 1964 – 3 March 2023

Cunningham Sonya. (Owner of Southern Mobility) Peacefully after a short illness, at Hospice Southland on Friday 03 March 2023. Loved mother of Ben. Loved daughter of Joseph*. Daughter of Glenis. Loved sister, sister-in-law and Aunty of Michael, Amanda, Alice, George. Loved sister and sister-in-law of Max and Jibba. Loved friend to many, you know who you are. 
                                         “She will be greatly missed by many.”

A service to celebrate Sonya’s life will be held in the the Lindisfarne Community Church, Cnr Miller and Lindisfarne Street’s Invercargill on Wednesday 8th March 2023, at 1:30pm, followed by a private cremation.

If you cannot make it to the service, the livestream can be viewed here on Sonya's tribute page. Messages to “Cunningham Family” PO Box 632, Invercargill, or click the leave tribute button below.

Tributes

We were both shocked and saddened by the news that Sonya had passed away. She was a lovely, generous and caring lady who has helped us out on numerous occasions. If we had a problem, she had a solution. Her sense of humour was a welcome relief at appropriate times. She will be greatly missed. Pam and Trevor Gilmour .

Pam and Trevor Gilmour

Sonya and Southern Mobility have been an amazing support to our family over many years. Sonya was so approachable, knowledgeable, caring and supportive. Nothing was ever a problem. Such a special and generous lady who will be so great missed. Isabel Radka.

Isabel Radka

Sincere condolences to Ben and the Southern Mobility Team. Sonya will be sadly missed for her generosity, sound advice and southern hospitality. Over the years Sonya has graciously helped us out whether it be the use of a shower chair, trying different products etc - an absolute life saver on most occasions. Rest in Love Sonya

Management

I haven't known Sonya for that long, she moved to the wee house next door to me a few months ago and I got to know her soon after - when Koby escaped and baled up my chicken one day. She invited me over for a coffee and I felt so lucky to have such a lovely neighbor - she was the type of person that you like immediately liked. She talked about her business and how much she loved helping people, and spoke so fondly of her son. The service I watched online today I can see how many people loved her. People like Sonya don't come along everyday, she will be remembered and loved by those who knew her for many years, and even by those for just a few months. I will miss her lovely smile, warmth and welcoming friendship. Rest in peace, Sonya and my sincerest condolences to her family. xx

Pauline Bennett

I didn't know Sonya well, but always enjoyed and appreciated her friendly and 'above and beyond' service when I was in Southern Mobility getting things for my elderly Mum. Sending condolences to Sonya's family now and in the days ahead.

Suzy Wells

A beautiful lady taken to soon. Our love and thoughts to you Ben, Max, Jibba, Mike, Amanda, George and Alice Rest in peace Sonja Lots of love Moose and Al

Bronwyn & Al Wardell

Goodbye Sonya - a lovely person with a big heart and big smile to match. Your positivity and genuine caring attitude was an inspiration. Great fun and great to work alongside as well. Caring thoughts to all Sonyas family.

Lesley Watt

Southern Mobility was started by us and it continued to grow when Sonya took over as owner and manager.Such aaa very nice lady and well liked in the comunity..

David & Dianne Landrebe

I am so sad to read that you have left this world you amazing lady words fail me as i always believed like you that you would beat this illness but it wasn't to be. Life can be so cruel why should you be taken when you have done so much to help so many and still so many for you to help. Will miss seeing your face and that amazing smile of yours at Supervalue. Rest in peace my friend your time on earth as passed.

Robyn leathwick

Sonya you were such a vibrant sole and had such a positive attitude. I am truly shocked to hear of your passing I really thought you would beat this. Words fail me. Ben be strong Sonya's wee dog needs you. RIP Sonya Brenda Maley-Vear Southland Express

Brenda Maley-Vear

A beautiful lady taken to soon. We will miss your beautiful smile, your love for life & your contagious spirit. You will always have a place in our hearts here at OPD. Those McIntoshs will forever be our wee reminder. Sending our strength and love to Ben. Also to Sonya's families. RIP beautiful Sonya

Rachel Malsen

Sonya was such a passionate and dedicated ladie. For those that she assisted in the Health and Disability sector. In both the Otago and Southland Region. Sonya worked for us before taking on Southern Mobility in 2013, after working for us for a few Years. Sonya made Southern Mobility what is is today after changing the original premises to the one right next door to its original location. Sonya will be greatly missed. I wish I had made the time to se you Sonya this week when down in Invercargill. Ever since I heard the news of your passing, I only wished I could turn back time to have seen you one more time. I will miss the catch ups and chats when I pop into your lovely showroom. Talk about business and family etc. To Ben especially, I only remember you as a very young Boy, and the Team at Southern Mobility, we are thinking of you all greatly and wish to offer our thoughts at this time to you all with your loss of a Great Mum and Friend (more so than employer) Sonya, I will keep an eye out in they Sky for yet a new star 🌟 to shine brightly. You have been taken way to young for your Family, Friends and Clients you have cared for over many years. Rest In Peace. You will missed more than you will ever know. Fly HIgh.

Shanon Arnold

Rest in peace Sonya you will be missed and thought about often. I will miss our phone chats and the laughter we shared. A lovely, beautiful lady gone far too soon, I will be forever grateful that you were part of my life. To Ben, and the team at Southern Mobility, I feel your loss greatly, and you're in my thoughts.

Emily Childs

Such a wonderful lady gone way to soon! Our deepest sympathy to all the family. Ben, take care and know that there are lots of people sending there love out to you. RIP Sonya! Lots of love Pru and Stuart

Pru and Stuart McFarlane

A lovely lady gone far too soon. Arthur truly valued your kindness and loyalty as a client and friend. Ollie and I will never forget your kindness when Arthur was on his own health journey. To Ben, and the team at Southern Mobility we feel your loss greatly, and you're in our thoughts. R.I.P Sonya. All our love, Kirsty and Ollie Skudder

Kirsty and Ollie Skudder
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