Family mourns Sonya Brantley after battle with cancer
The 81-year-old retired from Ocala following a life dedicated to preserving LDS heritage and raising four children.
By Bianca Herrera ·
Sonya Eugene McKinney Brantley died on October 20, 2026, after a fight with cancer.
Born on November 13, 1944, in Wildwood, Florida, she was the daughter of Walter McKinney and Virginia Pardee. On January 17, 1964, she married Pratt Brantley. The couple raised four children: Teresa, who is married to Matt Hina; Ollis, who is married to Cheryl; Darrell, who is married to Lisa; and Anna, who is married to Mike Tester.
The family says Sonya took a specific interest in preserving their shared history. She documented family stories and their LDS heritage to ensure future generations understood their roots. Her work in genealogy and oral history served as a central part of her time with relatives.
She is survived by her husband Pratt, her four children, and 12 grandchildren. The family also counts 11 great-grandchildren among those left behind. Her siblings and other relatives will attend the upcoming services.
The family has scheduled gatherings to honor her life. They will hold a viewing and a memorial service to share memories and celebrate her role as a wife, mother, and grandmother. The events will allow relatives to gather and reflect on her contributions to the family unit.
