Sonja Long-Cole

Sonja Long-Cole, 75, of Lebanon, IL, born January 12, 1950, in St. Louis, MO, died Thursday, September 18, 2025, in the comfort of her home.

Sonja graduated from Lincoln High School, East St. Louis. She retired from the field of education and had touched the lives of many children. She had worked in schools for the blind, taught kindergarten, and worked as a nanny. Sonja also was an independent beauty consultant for Mary Kay. She was a member of New Life in Christ Church, Lebanon, IL, and the Life Changer (Seasoned Saints) Ministry.

She was preceded in death by her devoted husband, John A. Cole, whom she married December 29, 2006, and who died May 11, 2020; her loving parents, Chester and Lena Mae Long; three brothers, Norvell Smith, Chester Brown, and Frank Bender; and a sister, Iola Bender-Anderson.

She leaves to cherish in her memory six brothers and sisters, Dwight Long, Kem Long, Reginald Long, Rozella Bender-Rich, Debra Jones, and Pastor Regina Long; a great-niece, Jessica (DiQuan) Grant; and many other nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great-nieces, and great-great-nephews.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.

Auntie Sonja always kept Uncle John close, the love of her life.

There was a joy (life) and sadness (death) when she spoke of being his wife.

•     Simple, reserved, quiet, private – all traits she possessed.
•     Outspoken and loving, never dealing in any mess.
•     Nurturing through friends and great-niece Jessica’s family.
•     Joy when talking about the ones who loved and comforted her entirely.
•    Amazing wife, sister, aunt, friend, and church member.

Sonja was truly a gem to all who loved her.

Give thanks unto the Lord, for He is good; for His mercy endureth forever.

Private funeral services will be held.

Burial will be at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, MO.

Obit Provided By:
Renner Funeral Home