On Friday, May 6, 2022, Sonja Joan Manley (Dougherty), loving wife and mother of four, passed away peacefully at home and surrounded by family, at the age of 82.
On December 28, 1939, Sonja was born to John and Goldie Dougherty in Burchard, Nebraska. She met her husband of almost 65 years, Sherman Manley, and they married on April 15, 1958. Together they raised four children – Kent, Kurt, Kathy and Korey.
After graduating high school in 1958, Sonja and Sherman married and started their family. After living in Nebraska and Kansas for several years, in 1965 they moved into their “forever home” in Excelsior Springs, Mo. After being a homemaker throughout the children’s upbringings, she worked at Guys Potato Chips and Orbseal.
In 2002, Sonja retired and began to spend weeks at a time traveling with Sherman as he worked as a truck hauler. They traveled to many states, including Florida and California. She also spent time enjoying nights at bingo, working on word puzzles, watching in-person wrestling with her girlfriends, camping with her husband Sherman, baking and spending time with her grandchildren. Sonja was known for her nurturing ways and never hesitated to let people know that she loved them. Selflessness and generosity were two traits that highlighted her personality. Sonja touched the lives of so many people; she lived a long prosperous life.
Sonja is survived by her beloved husband, Sherman Manley; their son, Kurt Manley; sister, Zelda; daughter in-laws, Lynette and Donna; grandchildren, Kenny, Jennifer, Kim, Josh, Amy, Brittany and Trever; 14 great-grandchildren; and many other loved ones.
Sonja is preceded in death by her parents, John and Goldie Doughtery; her sister, Onna Lee; daughter, Kathy; and two sons, Kent and Korey Manley.
Visitation will be held from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Bross and Spidle Funeral Home in Excelsior Springs, Mo., on Friday, May 13, 2022, with funeral services following. Burial services to follow at Hillcrest Cemetery in Excelsior Springs, Mo.
Our Sincere Condolences
Sherm and family, we are so sorry for the loss of Sonja. Our hearts ache with you in the loss of your loved one. We have fond memories of the gatherings of Farmland truck drivers through the years, which she never missed. We will miss Sonja at the monthly breakfast at Denney’s. Our Love, prayers, and sympathy to you.
Don & Edie
