Sonya Venita Fishburne

Sonya Venita Fishburne, youngest daughter of the late Milfus (Junior) and Juanita Thompson Fishburne was born on July 8, 1968, in Cottageville, SC. One of God’s beloved children entered eternal rest on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at home in North Charleston, SC, surrounded by her children. In addition to her parents, Sonya was preceded in death by her grandfather Milfus (Paul) Fishburne, grandmother Emma Johnson Fishburne, her brother Roger Allen Fishburne, and sisters Harriet Lynette Fishburne Grier and Sarah Strong Middleton, and brother-in-law, fun-loving spade partner Stephon Scott.

“Kitten” was a nickname she was affectionately called. Sonya was educated in the Colleton County public schools.  After receiving her high school diploma, Sonya received an Associate in Applied Science and an Administrative Office Technology degree. Sonya was very passionate about hair, makeup; and nails. She pursuedher lifelong passion of beautifying ladies.  She received a degree in Cosmetology and became a protégé at a local hair salon in Walterboro, SC. Sonya was employed as aBusiness Applications Solutions specialist and received a Medical Coding and Billing certification. A few of her hobbies were cooking, dancing, singing, listening to music, watching television game shows; and playing spades.    

Throughout the Charleston and Summerville area, Sonya worked as a Customer Service Representative for Checkers, Hardees, Dial America, IHG, TELUS; and QVC. She was passionate about helping customers resolve issues and recommending information regarding required services.  Sonya received numerous Customer Service awards for providing excellent assistance to customers. She enjoyed working from home remotely.

No one is born without a church song in their heart. Sonya’s song was “Amazing Grace,” and her favorite Bible verse was Isaiah 41:10. Sonya began her Christian journey very early. She attended Sunday school and summer vacation Bible studies at Jericho United Methodist Church, where her membership began. Despite her health issues, Sonya placed her trust and faith in God!

Sonya was a very protective Mother who loved life. Her three children were the center of her universe.  With great affection, she leaves to cherish her fondest memories to Colin Timothy Brock, Taamareia Shaquan Rice, Zakia Shotaysheia Rice, three granddaughters Kamiya Serenity Rice, Kali Sariya Martin-Rice; and Zyllion Rice. Sonya is survived by her brother Clifford Strong (Carmelita), sisters Gloria Riley (Ellis) and Jeannette Strong Scott, three auntswhom she loved dearly Mrs. Daisy Thompson Brock of Cottageville, SC, Dr. Dannette (William) Fishburne Scott and Mrs. Phyllis (Henry) Fishburne Mack both of Jacksonville, Florida, a host of cousins, nephews, niecesand childhood friends. Special friends she spent time with or employed with were Belinda Milburn (Taamareia and Zakia’s grandmother), Lorraine Magee, Brenda Washington, and Mae Miller. Sonya’s memories will be remembered and always in our hearts.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Sonya Venita Fishburne, please visit our floral store.