Born in Tower Hill, Jamaica, on January 22, 1966, Sonia was the beloved daughter of Upton “Alex” and the late Enid (Madden) Graham. She attended high school in Oshawa before continuing her education at George Brown College in Toronto, where she excelled as a varsity athlete in track, soccer, volleyball, and basketball.

In 1991, Sonia married her husband, George “Marshall” Shand, and together they built a loving home filled with laughter, strength, and unwavering support. She was a devoted mother to Jaslyn, Malcolm, and Anthony, whom she adored and took immense pride in raising.

Sonia was a successful entrepreneur, owning and operating several well-loved salons across Durham Region, including Hair Event, Mikel Salon, and Sonia’s Salon. Beyond her career, she embraced life with passion—whether through her early morning 10km urban hikes, weightlifting, or dancing to 80s hits. She had a love for fast cars, card games, and even sparring with her family using her MMA skills.

A woman of strength and honesty, Sonia lived life unapologetically. She was a loving wife, devoted mother, cherished sister, and a friend to many. She will be deeply missed by her husband, children, father, and siblings Aveta, Granville, Althea, and Morrell.

“You were the stars and moon manifested onto earth, and we don’t know what to do without your light.”

A visitation will be held on Saturday, March 15, 2025, from 9:30 AM to 11:15 AM at Mount Lawn Funeral Home & Cemetery. Friends and family are invited to gather, not to mourn her passing, but to celebrate the incredible life she lived.

The interment of ashes will take place at a later date.

In Sonia’s memory, donations may be made towards a commemorative bench in Pickering, providing a peaceful resting place along the routes she loved. Contributions can be made via e-transfer to jms3ah@gmail.com.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Mount Lawn Funeral Home.