Sonia S. Gleason Oliphant, formerly of Radford, entered in to the loving arms of Jesus on Jan. 3, 2017 in Hutchinson, Minnesota at Harmony River Living Center.
A memorial gathering of family and friends will be held at a later time, according to her wishes, at Carolina beach.
Sonia was born on June 10, 1938 in Watkins, Iowa. She was born to Helen C. Meyer and Orrin E. Gleason.
She made her home the last two years in Hutchinson, Minnesota. Before that, she lived in Radford for 25-plus years.
She was a loving wife, beloved mother and compassionate women of God. In her later years of life, she spent her time as a pastor’s wife, a sign language interpreter, women’s ministry leader and Hospice Chaplin.
She had a love for all people. She had a gift of listening and sharing God’s love that will forever be remembered. Sonia loved Carolina beach. The ocean was one of her favorite places to visit. Sonia is survived by her husband Thomas (Tom) Oliphant of Hutchinson; son, Jim (wife, Renee) Oliphant of Roanoke; daughters, Shelly (husband, Larry) Lane of Hutchinson and Deb (husband, Jeff) Olson of Iowa City, Iowa. She has eight grandchildren, Chris, Aaron, Heather, Sarah, Jessica, Tom, Brooke, Jon, and fourteen great-grandchildren.
Sonia requested that monetary gifts be given to: Gentle Shepherd Hospice Center, 6045 Peters Creek Road Northwest, Roanoke, VA 24019. She worked with Gentle Shepherd. This was a passion of hers to help others as they were ending their journey in life. To sit with them, bring them comfort and share her love of Christ.
“I have fought the good and worthy and noble fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will give to me on that Day, and not only me but to all those who have loved and longed for His welcomed appearing.”
— 2 Timothy 4:7-8.
