Lasonya Alyce Dyson, affectionately known as "Sonnie," left this world on February 18, 2026, at Mercy Healthcare’s Youngstown main campus. She fought valiantly against numerous health challenges over the years, a testament to her indomitable spirit. Born on August 22, 1961, in Sharon, Pennsylvania, the daughter of Pauline Cornelius and James Langley, she was a radiant light in the lives of many,

Sonnie embraced life as fiercely as she danced as a Majorette for Twin City Elks, Lodge #187, and as a proud Daughter of Zylphia Temple #66. A graduate of Farrell High School, class of 1979, she wore her achievements like badges of honor, each one more dazzling than the last. Over the years, she worked at various places -Ponderosa Steak House, Lens Crafters and Phar-Mor, finally pouring her heart into her work as a phlebotomist, where her compassion touched countless lives.

Lasonya had a heart full of dreams; she loved to travel and shop, bringing joy to each moment she could capture. Her laughter and spirit will forever echo in the hearts of those who knew her, and her journey will continue in the love of her family.

Besides her father, Lasonya is survived by her husband, Donald “Ray” Dyson, her cherished daughter, Asia Dyson, and her beloved grandson, Donald "DJ" Ray Dyson II. She also leaves behind her sisters, Karen Parker of Kannapolis, NC, Denise "Tiny" Washington Kimble (Melvin) of Hinesville, GA, Rahna Fahringer (Terry) of Brunswick, OH, her brother, James C. Langley (Christina) of Murfreesboro, TN, and her best friend, Lillian Cunningham, whom she fondly referred to as her "Guardian Angel", along with a score of family and friends.

Lasonya is preceded in death by her mother, Pauline Cornelius, and her nephew, Rodney Kenneth Cornelius, both of whom she loved dearly. In this time of reflection, let us remember Sonnie—her strength, her laughter, and the love she shared with everyone fortunate enough to be part of her world. As we say goodbye, let her spirit live on in the hearts of those she touched, a beacon of light guiding us through our days.

A celebration of her life will be held on Friday, February 27, 2026. Family and friends are invited to gather for a Public Viewing at the Jaylex Event Center, 2110 Glenwood Ave, starting at 10:00 AM, which will be followed by a Funeral Service at 11:00 AM, where we will honor and remember the beautiful journey of Sonnie's life with Rev. Lewis Macklin as the celebrant. After the committal ceremony, Lasonya will be laid to rest in a serene space at Belmont Park Cemetery.

At this time of intimate need and personal loss, the family of Lasonya Alyce Dyson elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care, along with Transitional After-Care Arrangements to the J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 2234 Glenwood Avenue, Youngstown, Ohio, 330.782.8500.