As my daughter's 12th birthday approached about two months into the pandemic shut down of 2020, she became more and more miserable over the prospect of a lonely birthday. We normally celebrate her special day with friends. At that time we weren't interacting in person with anyone, and she's an only child. 

Because I wanted her to know that she wasn't forgotten by her friends, and she wasn't as alone on her birthday as she felt that she was, I posted a request to the parents of her friends to help. I asked that they secretly stop by and leave a birthday message for her.  I had no idea if it would work, but within hours, I was startled to find Sonia and Anessia hard at work, stealthily leaving a beautifully drawn message in my driveway. The next day Aubrey was so happy to see all of the kind messages and gifts left from friends and neighbors.  

Sonia was a woman of action. I am forever grateful to her for the way she mothered Aubrey as if she were her own, especially when I found out how she would wake her and Anessia up with annoying songs. I adored the way she planned their trip to San Fransisco, researching outings that were different and interesting. I'm grateful to her for having the patience to cut bangs on Aubrey and discuss them at length with her.

Sonia, the beautiful, calm, strong, witty and peaceful woman is deeply missed.

We met Sonia when our girls were in dance.  She was always so much fun and so full of life. She was so proud and loved watching Sydney dance. We lost touch when they moved, but she was never forgotten as her smile and love for her family was so inspiring! 🙏♥️

Hi Anessia, 
Me and your grams had many special memories together,  but one of the highlights was the day you entered our lives, forever changing both of us. We both knew that you were going to be thee most spoiled and Beautifulest granddaughter throughout the entire world! Sonia was the kindest, sweetest and most loving person I have had the pleasure of sharing time with. She led the way in showing how the world should love and treat everyone.  She will be missed, but never forgotten and I will carry on her spirit and traditions with you.

Forever missing Sonia,
Grandpapa Bear


Sonia was an amazing grandma. She always had a smile while watching Anessia dance. I loved watching  the beautiful relationship you guys had, the three  of you are a magical trio.  Beautiful family. Sending hugs to Sydney and Anessia.

Sonia was artistic and had a natural sense of design. And I would often get roped in to help her turn an idea into some type of artwork for print or media. One day she handed me a paper sketch she had made and said to “Make this into a tattoo!”. And here I found the original scan of Sonia’s own drawing, a cool little snippet of her creativity. Sonia did eventually have a version tattooed on her back as well as it being the official logo of Team Phoenix (Woo-hoo!!!) featured in Komen and BC awareness advertising.

Anessia, Sydney, and Sonia, my family will always remember yours, for bringing your special kind of Aloha to our home. For two fun weeks we got to share the joy of your friendship and see the magic of your love for each other. Sonia seemed so happy then and upbeat and looking forward. I know she loved you both with her heart and soul. Thank you so much for sharing that time with my family. We never wanted you to leave and will always remember the love you brought to our home.

Always taking care of me and Sydney when we are at our worse. You were so funny and understanding just serving that hardcore supportive mother. You always understood the assignment. I’m heart broken that i never get to see your face light up a room again. We love you. 

Sonia, you are such a treasure to me. Such a bright beam of positivity and light.  Your love and encouragement was a stairway that only lead up! I am forever grateful for your guidance and support.  I pray for comfort for you Sydney and your beautiful baby girl! Knowing Sonia, she will forever walk along side the both of you. 

Sonia was the calm amongst the storm. I met her through volunteering at the elementary school. She was always there doing something or other. One event in particular was the decorating of the haunted house. There were kids running around, other parent volunteers were buzzing about doing tasks, then there was Miss Sonia, painting an amazing scary glow-in-the-dark scene. It was gorgeous. She wasn't worried at all about a thing, not even about getting paint on her clothing. She was confident that she'd get it done in time and that it would work out. She was always cool, calm and had it together, even while supporting making crazy happen. 

Hello Anessia, 

One thing that I'll always remember your grandmother for was, she was always so happy when she came to get you from the preschool. Sometimes she would come extra early so you and her could have girl time.
You were always so happy to see her and her you! She was super classy and very stylish and had a wonderful spirit. ❤ 

I have so many beautiful and funny memories that I wish I could share. One of my first memories of Sonia is hanging out with her and Bianca at her apartment’s jacuzzi and feeling cool because I got to hangout with her. Sonia never made me feel like I didn’t belong  even as a kid and was always kind to me and my parents.  We were supposed to travel and see the world together. We only got to go to Brazil together where she was my mute cousin because she did not speak Spanish 🤣 (they charged U.S. citizens more on tours).  I miss you Prima I still
can’t believe you are gone  😭🙏🏼📿

I first met Sonia, around eight years ago. She worked at the elementary school my kids went to, and Anessia was in the same class as one of my boys. Turns out Anessia and Elijah were really good little friends and I ended up taking care of Anessia, before and after school. 
It was an instant connection, the friendship that turned into family. Sonia was not only my friend, she was my mentor, she was there for me when my own mother wasn't. She was very supportive, loving and honest. She had the biggest heart and her girls were her world.
My favorite memory, would have to be the time, where Sonia, and the little kindergarteners, Anessia and Elijah, talked me into a sleepover in the middle of a school week. It was so sweet and grand. 
Another memory of her, is that she always made you feel special. In conversation, in acts of kindness, she made you know she loved you. 
I'll always hold her dear to me, we all will. She was our family, she was our Mommy and our Grandma, she was more than a friend. Now, every time we put out feet in the ocean, we will wiggle our toes in the sand, and play in the water, just for you. We love you.

So, I really wanted to write this on my desktop but no luck. I know it will be filled with mistakes. 
You’re grandma is hilarious in a sense she is herself, unique, unmoved. I met her during Kate Sessions fifth grade classes’ activities. I watched her take control what was going to happen in class with students, just silently. At first, I thought she was a teacher.  In time with field trips and such, I came to understand she was a grandma. I laughed admiringly remembering my mom. She had my mom’s I don’t give a flying bird what you think 😂: 
This is a strong woman. I admired her for her dedication to you Anessia. I can never forget riding with her and Mr. Bobby to field trips. We arrived to the Midway Museum and we excitedly were told to go ahead. We carried the lunches for the 5th grade class. We walked to the elevator, across the ship, down the stairs and into the hallway to our destination. We dropped off the stuff and headed back with our guide. We stopped during our stroll back and irritably said, did he just make  us walk around instead of cutting through here? She wanted to give him a piece of her mind. I was thinking, damn,  she ain’t playing 😂. 
Needless to save he was saved as we walked into the hanger with the kids exploring each station. 
I knew then, you don’t mess with Sonia 😂. 
One of my favorite memories was the last skating party the fifth grade class had. We sat , after all the kids were on the floor, watching as some struggled to skate and others just flying through. Your grandma had a beautiful smile as she watched you glide through and enjoying the moment. She just looked peaceful. I hadn’t seen her so at peace and not an ounce of worry on her. 
She is a wonderful person! She was tough but when you come to know her piece by piece, she was a gentle woman. You are blessed with your mommy and grandma. She will help guide you. She is strength and I know you have that. 
Thank you for being a friend to my son Anessia. 
Hugs,
JJ’s mom, liz

Sonia was a vibrant, optimistic and fun loving person. She is one person that will always will have a special spot my heart. She taught me to always love life regardless of its trials. These pictures are just a small example of the good vibes she always had! 

The memory I’m sharing is a little fresh and tender but it is a memory that I will certainly cherish forever. I was fortunate enough to get to visit Sonia with my lifelong best friend and Sonia’s cousin Dana,  a week before her beautiful heart stopped beating. 

During our visit, I got to witness once again what I will always remember about Sonia, her love and loyalty for others. Even while going through what no one should ever have to, she was still worried about others. In her coherent moments she was telling Syd were she needed to take us, where we should eat or what we should see. She was loving us while we were there to love her. That was just her way, loving everyone in the exact way they needed it. 

Not a single part of me is surprised that she was still loving  everyone else in her final days, it is just who she was. What I am comforted by is seeing that this love, this legacy, it lives on in the two most important people in her life, her daughter and her granddaughter. Syd, I witnessed your love while you took care of your mother’s every need, the only person who could have ever done better was maybe your mom taking care of you or your bear 😉. I am in awe of your love and your mom’s legacy is already living on through you and that will continue with you daughter. I love you all and can only hope to do it as well as your family. 

I will never forget all the times with my cousin Sonia, she was always my older cousin that treated me good.  She would always invite me to go out with her she would do my makeup do my hair and let me wear something of hers.  She took me to my first drs visit when i was carrying Isiah.  She was always around if i needed someone to call on.  I always accepted and wanted her hand me downs cause she always dressed so nice.  We even got into a big fight a rumble in wagon mound with some other girl that was rude to us and because Sonia was a little older i fought the girl and beat her up while Sonia held that girls mother in the bathroom stall so she couldnt come out hahaha.  She would always invite me to go out cruising central with her and her friends so i had something to do.  But after we had our own children we didnt hang out so much we had other responsibilities but she always attended what she was invited to.  I will never ever forget you cousin.  It was an honor to pray the rosary in your honor and you will be forever missed.  We will all watch over your baby girls and your mom so you rest in peace.  Lots of love to you 💗 

I have so many memories of your Grandma from working at City Bank with her on Maui, she and your Mom living at the Cheeto house and going to see Van Wider at the theater with her and your Mom. But, the best memory I have of your Grandma happened on the morning my Dad died. Your Grandma was one of the first people I called and because of the type of person she is, she was right there at the hospital to support me and my Mom. Your Grandma had the biggest heart, brightest smile and she was the greatest friend.  

Sonia was my second mother growing up, as Sydney and I were best friends and inseparable. To have known her and have her be a pet or your life is a memory to cherish forever. 

Her beauty on the outside and inside were insurmountable. She had a contagious laugh, a huge smile, a full heart, and strong love for everyone she cared for. 

Memories of blaring TLC in the car so we could sing our hearts out, fighting with my crazy curly hair to get in butterfly clips for dance pictures, scolding us for writing bad words, and simply enjoying life will never be forgotten. 

To Gram, your daughter cherished you and showed me what respect was through her love for you. To Sydney, you know you will forever have the prettiest and coolest mom. To Anessia, your grandma loves you more then you will ever know. And to all you ladies, continue to make her proud and be the strong, fierce, courageous, beautiful women she wants you to be. I love you all. 

Sonia, was a wonderful grandmother to her granddaughter Anessia . I remember when Anessia was in preschool Sonia always make sure she attended to all Anessia school events. Sonia, always come into the preschool with a smile face holding her granddaughter’s hand and before leaving her she always makes sure to give her a kiss and hug before she leaves.  Sonia will be missed. May she rest in peace. 

Anessia, you have one of the best grandma ever! 💕 

Susan Vang-(Anessia, preschool teacher)

Sonia, first I'd like to thank you for bringing in my 1st best friend/soul sister, Sydney, into this world.  Because of you, I grew up with someone I could dance, play, laugh and dream with.  You did such an amazing job as a mother and grandmother and that deserves such praise!

I was blessed enough to have countless memories with Sonia.  But here are a few that stand out the most...

Girls night and rag curls! Sydney and I were  hanging out at her house eating dinner so our moms could attempt rag curls for the first time. We had Duke City pictures that next morning and of course our mamas wanted us to look the flyest! Lol If I could only find those picture! We looked ridiculous with those rags in our hair and our moms couldn't stop laughing at us! I don't think I ever laughed so hard! It was worth it though, because I remember Sonia saying, "Who cares if you girls match! They're just mad because you two are the prettiest!"

I also remember Sonia being so motherly to me. The good and bad. She called me babe and during dance competitions would always give the sweetest encouragement and good luck wishes. But if me and Sydney were acting crazy or making messes, she would be the first person to yell at me as if I was her own daughter! Lol!  

When I was with them, she was so giving and compassionate.  Us girls were always eating somewhere or shopping somewhere. And if Sydney or myself wanted something, she'd get it for us.  

She came to see me graduate nursing school. That was special to me.  She helped make jello shots and decorate, making everything perfect. I remember her setting our all the flowers I had gotten to display nicely,  she was so proud on how it came out! 

One more thing. She threw the best pool parties at West Mesa! Sydney had birthdays and her bon voyage party there. It was always decorated, she bought the cutest cakes and let us kids run wild!  

Sonia, I will miss you. Enjoy Heaven, I bet its breathtaking!


Sonia was such a great  & beautiful women To spend time with we were raised together my dad used to be married to her aunt  we grow togetherWe went to elementary school and middle school high school as we go olderI moved out had two kids which were to them for Daniel Desiree Sonia moved in with me help me raise his kids she was such a great role model to them we spent so much time together we were cousins but we were closer than that .Getting ready to go out at night on the weekends will take us forever just because everything had to be perfect your gram  would have to have everything perfect we would have a  blast just to hang out and do things together or go out as young adults we would have a great time I always knew somebody we were we went she was very popular and such a beautiful heart your grandma will always be there watching over you she will always be in your heart don’t forget that she is very strong Woman and I think she put her mind into doing she would get done you got her jeans so you and your Mama I’m going to be very strong women

Memories of Sonia and I go way back to when we were in middle school, even though she was 2 years older than me. After graduating high school we’d go to Albuquerque Dukes baseball games and out on the town during weekdays. We once went to Colorado Springs too for a weekend of fun.  Let’s just say we were the life of the nightclub dancing all night! In the most recent years Sonia reached out to me to make T-shirts for special birthdays and other events.  The last time we saw each other she was in Albuquerque visiting family and we got together and had dinner. I cherish that moment and wish we had more to share.  She will be truly missed!

Sonia and I had conversations about life. She was always upbeat and positive regardless of how she felt or what she was going through. Her spirit would permeate during the conversations and would inspire me to go even further than I thought I could go. I will always love her for this and now that she is physically gone I look forward to her spiritual visits and our continued conversations. Rest in Power & Peace Sonia! 

I will never forget the night Sonia made me go to a school fundraiser. She didn’t want to go alone so she asked Bailey and I to go with them. I hated school functions but she convinced us to go. It was right around the corner from the house so we decided to have a few drinks while we were there. When it was time to leave she wanted to grab a centerpiece from one of the tables to take home that had succulents in them. So she grabbed one and hid it under her coat. When we got to the car I said. “Did you just steal the centerpiece?” She responded “ no it was a parting gift!” So as we drove home and laughed about it and talked about random stuff Bailey and Anessia were recording us in the back. We had such a fun time doing things and remember we always just laughed so much over random things. We love you Sonia and we will miss you but we know we have an amazing Angel in heaven watching over us.

Sonia and I spent a lot of time together when Grandma Bidilia was sick and Aunt Mary took care of her at her apartment in the Tramway area. My dad and I were always there.  There was a pool and Sonia and all of us would go swimming and lay out in the sun. During this time, Sonia gave me her homecoming dress so I could wear it for my 8th grade graduation and she did my hair and make-up. She also did my hair for other formal events when I was in middle school and my early years of high school. The picture attached to this story is of Sonia, myself, and my brother  from my 8th grade graduation in Albuquerque, New Mexico. I remember the first time that I ever rode the City bus was with Sonia and Tanya. When we were young, I just remember Sonia always being so happy and giving. She had an awesome laugh and always made everyone feel welcome. She was a beautiful person inside and out!

I only meet your mother just a few days and I could already tell She was such an amazing person. Her laugh and joy was present and I could tell she loved you and your daughter so very much.  She is in heaven now . She is happy and in peace . She will always be with you Encinias ALWAYS!

We used to listen to Let Me Clear My Throat by DJ Kool before heading out to the clubs. LOL Sonia knew so many people that we would not even have to wait in line. We would get to bypass everyone and go right in. We always had a great time. Never do I remember having a bad night out with my friend Sonia.

Realizing I don't have to live my adult life by society's norms started with Sonia. The first time I was at her house for dinner she told Sydney to "set the table." There was no dining table so I was confused for a minute until Sydney brought out a large towel and laid it on the floor. She then got napkins and silverware and placed them on the towel. "Table?" LOL Sonia tells me there's not enough room for a dining table and a desk so the desk wins. Besides "The dinner table is where you eat not necessarily the table in the dining room." 

I met Sonia when she and Sydney came on their first training walk for the 3-Day  in 2011. She had been invited by Jenee, another member of my team, 2 Scoopz. She fit right in to my crazy team! I learned that she was a breast cancer survivor and was the "face" of Susan G. Komen that year. We had a blast training and getting to know one another. She always had a smile on her face, kind words for everyone, and a positive attitude. The walk that year was special because she was there. Her big heart and indomitable spirit live on through Sydney and Anessia. I'll miss my scoopless pink sister.















I met Sonia in high school.  We lived in the same neighborhood and I remember everyone hanging out at Hawthorne park after school.  She was fiercely protective of her family, especially her uncle.  She had the best smile and laugh.  

It’s been a while since we chatted.  I think the last time we chatted she was trying to eat healthier and I sent her some shakes to sample and told her to meal prep and take it one step at a time.  I also sent her a numerology reading.  

Anessia and Sydney, she will be watching over the two of you.  When you feel her there she is.  When you have dreams about her, write them down.  Your souls will always be connected.  I will send you the reading I did for her.  I’m sending you tons of loving energy.  Blessings!



My family went to Albuquerque for my Great Grandmothers funeral. My son MJ was 5 months old. We were all at the church waiting for the service to start. Sonia comes walking down the aisle picks up MJ off my lap and tells me “him and I need to get to know each other” and off she goes. Everytime  I think about that it makes me smile.
 
I believe it was 2010. My boyfriend at the time flew Sonia out to surprise me for my birthday. I was led to believe by a friend at the time I was riding with her to the airport to pick her brother up. The flight arrives and here comes Sonia bouncing down the walk way. Best surprise ever, after we get done hugging she gets all serious. She says what is a dusting? I said what? She said the pilot said there is a dusting of snow. I said oh basically a very thin layer of snow on the ground. You know like dust does on tables. She said no we don’t do dust. Well she was right that night we got several inches of snow.
 
Sonia came and visited me I believe it was May 2009. So anybody that knows Missouri it is hot and humid than. She loved seeing lightening bugs but did not find the humidity amusing.
 
When certain songs come on like Just kickin it, Nuthin but a G thang it takes me back to being in the car on the way to drop Sydney off at school and than Sonia would drop me off at work before heading to school herself. I am truly blessed to have had this amazing lady in my life and all the wonderful memories.

I had a lot of firsts while I lived with Sonia.
I  remember Sonia telling me a couple days before Memorial day that we were going to go to the lake for the weekend with one of her friends. I asked her where we were going to stay and she said we will figure it out when we get there. So we head to the lake in the friends car. We get to the lake and spend the day swimming and hanging out. When it comes time to crash the friend stays in a camper with her boyfriend and Sonia and I sleep in the friends car. Yes that was the first time I had ever slept in a car. It was quite the experience both of us sleeping in the compact car but I will say it was a great time. Of course I did come home with a bad sunburn and blisters which Sonia took care of.
Sonia talked to someone that was on the Colorado Rockies baseball team. I remember one of the times they were in town she was going out she told me I was coming along. Now anybody that knew me back than knows I always looked a lot younger than what I was. We met up with Sonia’s friend and some of his teammates they decide we are going to a bar. Sonia tells me let me do the talking. So we get to the door and she does some talking and next thing I know im walking into the first bar ive been in. I was 19 looking 14.
Sydney was Sonia’s everything. She let me know we would be taking a trip to Las Vegas for Sydney. We did all the fun kid things while we were there. Circus Circus for the games. We went to MGM, that’s when it was still set up with the Wizard of OZ. We were going to ride the roller coaster that was inside a hotel but it was closed. We watched the pirate show. We went and saw the dam. We stayed at a hotel off the strip. So the first time I ever rode a city bus was in Vegas. Sonia got a kick out of this especially when I told her I would never forget it because it smelled like pee.

Sonia was a beautiful, kind soul. I remember her welcoming me with her amazing smile to the Komen family. I started volunteering with Susan G. Komen around 2008 and it really felt like a family because of Sonia. We would work at events together and she was so fun and full of light. She made me want to keep coming back to volunteer. I was a volunteer for 5 years because of the family dynamic. Even though we have not seen each other in many years, I know if we were to volunteer again together, it would be like no time had passed. May your light shine on! 

I met Sonia while volunteering at Sessions Elementary. One of the first things I learned about her is that she is super involved in all things Anessia and very passionate about whatever task she’s handed. We served pizza together to fundraise  for the 5th grade class and let me just say Sonia was extremely effective in making sure everyone’s hands were gloved up and in deterring kids hands from touching the pizza, and this was even before covid happened. She was in charge of organizing the 5th grade dance and she definitely had a vision about it that nobody was allowed to mess with. I clearly remember her excitement once the auditorium was decorated and it all came together. Afterwards our paths would cross while at the dance studio, or Amanda’s house, or on the many walks she would take with Sydney around PB. You didn’t even have to know her well to see what a huge presence she was in her daughter and granddaughter’s lives. The love she has for them is so very evident. She was clearly a strong woman with a fierceness that was admirable. Those qualities most definitely live on in Sydney and Anessia. Sonia, you will be so missed♥️

My sister Sonia was the first person to take me to a club when I first got to Albuquerque New Mexico. And who could ever forget that beautiful smile and laughter.


Dear Anessia,

We, Amber and I, have so many beautiful memories of your amazing grandma! In fact, if it wasn’t for her and Abu, I am not sure how my life would have turned out. When I met your grandma, I was at a very difficult time in life, I was a new mother, had no direction for my future, was making horrible choices, and I was, as she would say, “a hot mess”! The only thing I had good in my life was my Amber. As soon as we met, Sonia took me under her wing, and she told me she I was getting my shit together no questions asked and with no complaints. Before I knew it, I was enrolled in a program at TVI, my baby girl was enrolled in an awesome daycare where she got to spend every day with her cousin (your mommy), I had new clothes (and they matched!), I saved up for a place in town just down the street from Abu, and I gained the confidence I needed to become the woman that I am today! Sonia changed everything for us! My favorite memories are the holidays we spent together. Man could your grandma do holidays and parties or what! I remember our first Christmas together, she never left Amber out and she made sure the girls had matching pjs and plenty of toys! I swear you couldn’t see the Christmas tree! We had the best time, us girls just hung out all day in our pjs eating junk and playing with the girls’ new toys. She was such a thrifty shopper too, you would have thought that the decorations in her home came from fancy malls, nope, usually everything came from Target, and she just spoofed it up, so it looked all high class…just like SONIA, high class!!! My other favorite memory is when she took me to the club for a girl’s night out. It was the first time I had ever been in a club and probably drank! I was so nervous and freaked out because I was so out of my element, but Sonia made sure I had a blast, and we were out till like 4 am!!! It was one of my favorite nights ever Penelopy and our secrets from that night will forever remain that…our secret LOL!!!!

I met Sonia at a yoga retreat for cancer survivors in 2016.  We became instant friends and shared a room together for the long weekend.  We had so much in common and realized that we both had had breast cancer around the same time.  This retreat took us to really deep places within ourselves and Sonia was just filled with anger about her battle and how unfair it was.  We laughed together!  We cried together.  We started to heal ourselves together.  I was blown away by how honest and real Sonia was and I SO admired how strong she was!  She became one of my closest friends and I can't even put into words how much I will miss her laugh and her friendship.  She loved her girls more than life itself and I know she is mad as hell that this happened!  I promise to always be there for you girls and please know that she is always with you.  ALWAYS!! 

Sonia was my first friend stepping into San Diego from India. She was the go to person not just for me, but for most of the people in office. I used to admire her beauty, her long thick hair and for the strong woman she was.  She had so much love, compassion and patience in life.
I’ve seen her go through the phase of the first time she was diagnosed with cancer till she underwent the surgery. There were so many days that I cried feeling helpless.
She being one of the strongest people I know, within no time she bounced back with double the vigour. I remember the last time we met before my return to India. We all i.e. Maria, Sonia, Sydney and I met for lunch in my rented Ford Mustang and took a few sassy pictures. 
I was again reminded of her and did have a chat with her when my Mom was diagnosed with cancer. I know that she loved her family dearly, especially Sydney and Anessia 
I love you so much and miss you Sonia.

I loved her heart; she just gave and gave and never took from anyone. She loved ALL people, and she gave everyone a chance. She was so funny too…her laugh was infectious, her smile was radiant, and she had the best darn shapely hot body, and I swear I never saw her work out, it was just natural! I love you Sonia, you will forever be in my heart, and I promise I will forever do everything I can to take care of Sydney B, Anessia, Nunu and Abu. Anessia, we will have plenty of time to tell more stories, together we will all keep your grandma Sonia and her legacy alive, she will never be forgotten, and you will forever be protected by your ANGEL…SONIA MARIE ENCINIAS!!!!

Love you and see you on the other side! Love Amanda and Amber

 

I first met Sonia on Maui working for Parsons on a Joint Venture for the Island of Kahoolawe.  She was the friendliest person and had the best smile.  I got to meet her Mom and her daughter Sydney, they had an awesome bond.  I was honored when she asked me to be a witness when she got married and we drove to Wailuku and she got married in the Judges chambers.
She was full of life, always giving, helpful and funny.  She left the project before it ended and she left an impression on all of us that worked with her.  
The picture I included is at Da Kitchen, we went there a lot to celebrate someones birthday at work.  It was the first time in my life that I saw someone use Tabasco sauce so liberally on her Kalua Pig, Rice and Mac salad.  IYKYK!

A hui hou Sonia, until we meet again!  Sydney, we love you and I know your Mom is so proud of you and the wonderful Mom you are to Anessia.

Countless impromptu hikes and spur of the moment adventures. 

My favorite memory is when Sonia and I turned it up in Vegas. We had the best time ever! We laughed, shared stories, and danced until the wee hours of the morning.  A time I will never forget. ♥️ 

Sonia was a great example of a strong woman who made lemons into lemonade. She really loved life and nothing seem to keep her down. She was so wonderful to Lauren and made her time in San Diego exciting. I wished I had the energy that this woman had. 
 Sonia was about making each day memorable and meaningful. We had some fun outings and good talks. My memory of her keeps me optimistic for the future and to never give in to the negatives life throws at me. 
Her time on this earth was not wasted and she definitely inspired those she came in contact with. I can tell her strength was passed on to you two beauties. Love you guys. 

Sonia was with me when I found out I was pregnant the first time. I kept checking the test stick over and over. Sonia looks at me and said "Pregnant is pregnant, Gia. Rechecking it over and over isn't going to change that." LOL Just a few weeks later I miscarried and she was there for me when I got home. She let me lie on Sydney's bed and cry. Sydney stood at the bedroom door and asked if I was ok. "She will be. Just give her time." Now every time I am going through anything and wonder if I will be ok, I hear "You will be. Just give it time." Those words have kept me going many times.

Sonia hated every guy I went out with- and for good reason. They were all pathetic. I really should have had them meet her before I agreed to go out with them. I could have saved myself a lot of grief. I wish she had gotten to meet my husband. I am pretty sure she would have approved. 

I remember when I first met Sonia, she was so loving, caring, and full of life. She leftover  a mark on my heart. She was such a strong, courageous, and beautiful women. I will always admire her for that. I promise to always be there, support, and love your girls. We will always celebrate you. I love you! 

-Yesbel Gonzalez-Gamble 

I first met Sonia while working on the UXO clearance project for Kahoolawe Island in Hawaii.  In a space filled with masculine energy, Sonia's corner of the office was a sanctuary from all of that.  Sonia was every bit as beautiful as her heart and I remember having long conversations about raising strong daughters, what to expect with motherhood, and how to navigate their formative years. I admired her relationship with Sydney, then a precocious middle-schooler, and hoped that my relationship with my own daughter would be like theirs -- loving, open, and fun with the strength to pull through some of the tougher formative challenges with grace and fairness. Sonia was superwoman. Aloha ʻoe e Sonia, you are missed.  

I had the pleasure of spending some fun times with the Encinias family,
 We had some great memories from San Diego and  Albuquerque.

 A couple of winters ago when Sonia visited Albuquerque with Sydney and Anessia , we decided to go to the Sandia mountains to go sledding,  our trip became and adventure as my niece's SUV got stuck on the snow packed roads and had to be towed out the mountain.  The trip was a success.  Sonia was always willing to make some good memories .

Sydney:
I know this must be a difficult time for you and your family. Loosing someone so special can feel overwhelming.
Please know that I'm here for you to listen, confort and lean on during this difficult time..Your mom was an amazing woman and she will truly be missed. 





Your grandma used to like to eat jolly rancher candies so she made up her own nickname kandy kisses.     She also would eat lettuce sandwiches with miracle whip.   Another time your grandma wanted us to register for night school and Albuquerque high. So we did then it was time for us to go to school it was September and the state fair was here so what do you think she wanted to do instead of going to school we went to the state fair I don’t think we ever went back to night school. Anissa I hope youI love reading your stories about your grandma that you get from everyone.

There are very few people I trusted with my son but I always trusted Sonia. She would always step in to help me during the beginning stages of motherhood without being asked. She was so giving and an angel in everybody's life she walked in to. I'll always remember her singing to my pregnant belly, playing with my son, volunteering at my dance studio and getting our matching Friday the 13th tattoos. ❤

With Love,
Mariah

I worked with Sonia at the Maui office of the PUXB JV Kahoolawe clearance project.  What a beautiful soul and a dear friend who will be sorely missed. Aloha a hui hou (until we meet again), may you rest in Peace and eternal Love.

Wish I would’ve gotten to really meet your mom. I remember picking riley up and being introduced  I was struck by her beautiful smile. It seemed to embrace life and welcomed the world around her into her arms. It emanated the beautiful soul inside of her 
Sending you so much love and positivity 💛

Aunty Sonia was like a second mother to me. When she and Sydney first moved into our downstairs unit at the “Big Yellow House,” I remember Aunty Sonia being the sweetest lady and noticed she had a daughter, Sydney. Not long after we became friends and it was the start of a beautiful childhood and quickly turned into family.   One memory I won’t forget was when Aunty Sonia and Sydney took me and my sister Jane to Wendy’s  for the first time to try their frosty. We headed home and ate on the living room floor (or was it the garage?)  and we just sat there in a circle, enjoying our Wendy’s..laughing, talking stories, and just enjoying each other’s company. I think that might have been the first time I experienced true human connection and I will never forget that.  It is engraved in my heart, it’s a warm feeling.  Thank you Aunty Sonia for blessing us with your warm and welcoming heart and I thank God that it was in his plan for our paths to cross. I honestly don’t know what life would be like if you and Sydney didn’t move into the Big Yellow House.  Until we meet again, Aloha. Please give my mother, Josefina, a big hug for me. ❤️ I love you. 

Probably one of the softest voice I ever heard. It gave me right away the feeling of trust... I met Sonia thru Sydney during cheer season. She was always there for almost every activity or game. I saw that strong mother and daughter bond. At age 14 I really didn’t know much, but I came from a hard childhood so I remember telling Sonia how i thought it was cool that bond. We had a little chat. She then told me something that I will never forget, that my life I can decide the outcome, no matter where I’m at. 
I didn’t really get it at the time but that i had to be positive and it has helped me most of my life growing up and seen situations a lot different.  Thank you Sonia. Thank you for letting me meet you and thank you for being the kindest person that I ever got to meet. Fly high 🕊

I can remember us as teenagers and Sonya wanted a construction sign with a light on it For her bedroom. So we brought it home to her house she kept in a room for a couple of days she had to get rid of it it kept her up all night.     Another memory is going to All”sups To play donkey Kong we would go after school.      Your grandma would carry a white purse around and all she ever had in it was her nail polish she would do her nails in class when we were at Highland high school. She could do some really cool designs on her nails. 

I had the pleasure of meeting Sonia through her daughter Sydney who I served with in Qatar. My memory of Sonia happened last year, 2020, which was a difficult year for many. Around Christmas Sydney and I decided to team up and adopt a family in need for the holiday. 

The week before Christmas I drove down to San Diego from Vegas to meet up with the Encinias to go shopping for our adopted family. Upon arrival they made it clear to not say Encinias because I would be addressing all 3 of them. Shopping with the Encinias was an amazing time. I remember Sonia telling me to do something then everyone thought she was going to scare me away, but I didn’t think nothing of it because Sonia had a welcoming energy. I had a feeling any directive order from her was done with good intentions. 

Those few days with the Encinias going shopping, eating pizza, watching Netflix, and playing Among Us was a lovely time spent. I’m truly pleased that I was able to share one of my most selfless moments in my life with a beautiful soul and her family. 

Rest in love Sonia ❤️

Sonia, it was a blessing getting to know you.  I will never forget the good times we had in Brazil . It was so much fun. The times we hung out were so much fun, so full of energy, great vibes. I remember meeting you the first time we meshed instantly.  You were strong, full of meaningful advice, you met me before forming my family and saw me flourish to what my family is now. I will cherish always our talks.  I always loved the mamma you were to Sydney, she was your everything, your light, your life, your world. You went above and beyond for her and then came Anissa, she filled your heart with so much more just like Sydney.  I understand what you meant having baby girls is so much fun.  Thank you Sonia for being you and not giving one cent what others thought. I heart you dearly and you will truly be missed. Do not worry about Sydney, your mamma and Anissa they have a tribe that will look out for your babies.  My friend may your light continue to shine on us and may you now Rest In Peace my dear friend.  

I remember when I first started couponing, she was my biggest support and cheering me on. Everyday she would send me a message "hey little mama help I need X,Y,Z" and we'd sit and make a game plan & she'd run out and do the coupon deal. "Hey little mama, I want to get Anessia a iPad " she messaged me one morning, we worked all day to find a good deal and BAM I found one. She moved sooo fast to get it. 

During Sydney's long move/road trip they came to Dallas and mommy's smile  light up the entire state! We went fishing, many laughs at dinner and she rocked Xavier to sleep to allow Sydney, Keijuan and myself the chance to be kidless and go explore for the night. She kept telling me to hurry up and have another baby, insert eye roll... I refused to listen to her, I had just had my son 5 months ago... but she kept pressing the issue like she knew something. Well, the week they left I found out I was pregnant with my daughter. I think she was more excited than me. Like she had wished that on me. 

She is a true warrior, hero and biggest role model that I have ever met and I have been so honored to have her apart of not only my life, she loved my husband and my kids for the last 14 years.

My prayers to the family. Sonia and I were high school friends. My heart breaks and I am in disbelief she is gone. She had the brightest smile at Highland High and I will miss her.

Happy homecoming my friend. May your wings be as big as your gorgeous smile.

Celesta 

I remember I was starting a new job and Sonia was the first person I met. She greeted me with her bright smile and her loud laugh.
We became friends immediately, and follow her adventures with Sidney and Anessia all these years.
Her dedication and love for her girls was just amazing.


I remember when Sonia, Sydney and Aneesia would come to Albuquerque and wouldn’t forget to visit me. Sonia would tell me all the time you're the only one I trust with my hair. You’re the only one who knows how to cut it right. People in California suck at cutting hair! 🤣 I will always remember her awesome humor and beautiful smile!

I lived with my cousin Sonia for half a school year. In those few months we made some unforgettable memories. The best one was, we started the fire place and the whole house was full of smoke! Auntie Maria wanted to kill us because she was having family over for supper.

I will forever miss her!!

There are so many amazing memories with Sonia. I’ll never forget on one of our daily walks to 7-11 around the corner to get her favorite snack— Pepsi and hot Cheetos, the Pepsi machine was down. We spent the next hour walking around all of PB trying to find a Pepsi machine for Sonia because she was determined to have her fountain Pepsi with her hot Cheetos. When we got back to the office an hour later, Sonia unapologetically told everyone that she wasn’t coming back without her Pepsi and hot Cheetos then went back to work. I’ll never forget the life advice and brutal honestly Sonia shared with me freely whenever I needed it. I know she loved her family more than anything in this world and I’m confident her love still remains here to guide and protect her beautiful family as they navigate forward in these new times. I am so thankful and happy to have had the opportunity to know Sonia when I did. 

When we met at the studio we all became instant friends. I loved how welcoming she was and we were always laughing.  Getting our matching tattoos on Friday the 13th will always be a cherished memory. #ganggang 

Sonia was an amazing classmate at Hayes Middle School. She was always full of life and fun to be around. Never was a day when she wouldn't say hello to me or our classmates. Outstanding student too! God gained an angel.  She isn't in pain anymore but healthy and watching down on her family and friends. RIP my friend. 

I met Sonia at Serra High School, our daughters shared a beautiful friendship while being in the cheer squad in their early high school years.
Sonia and I quickly became friends, she just had that great personality that you couldn’t help but be drawn to her.  I happened to be going through a divorce and times were tough and, without asking, Sonia helped each and every way she was able to. Not only did she care for my daughter but she became a solid emotional support to me, she was loving, kind,
compassionate and FIERCE, she reminded me of of the strength within us, she cared unconditionally and I couldn’t have gone through those early tough times as a single mom without her guidance. I will be eternally grateful to her!
May she rest in love 💗

Sonia was such an amazing person and bright light in my families and my life. We've known each other almost two decades and have had so many amazing times together.  She was always happy, had the most beautiful smile and absolutely contagious laugh. There are so many memories I have of Sonia and all of them priceless to me. We are so unbelievably heart broken over her loss. I am also so grateful that she included us in her families lives and for the friendship we have with Sydney and Anessia. Sonias legacy will live on through these two amazing women and all the love and memories Sonia gave to all of her friends and family. 

We love you so much Sonia.

*The attached picture is a New Year party at our and Sonia was on lead guitar, slaying it! We'll never ever forget you and how amazing you are.

One of my favorite memories with Sonia was when Sydney turned 16. Sonia took Sydney and I to Pacific Beach, we went shopping, had dinner, it was a perfect girls day. We went walking on the beach and Sydney tried to teach me how to do a cart wheel. I am the most uncoordinated person, so I kept falling, all while Sydney tried her hardest to get me to do this trick. Sonia was recording and could not stop laughing.
This is just one memory out of 50 I have with those two. Sonia made everything fun, running small errands was so entertaining with Sonia and Sydney because they had such an amazing bond. Sydney and I went to Sonia's wax appointment with her one time and I don't think I've ever laughed so hard in a wax studio....Sonia just found humor and happiness wherever she went.
 I am so blessed to have gotten to share so many moments with those two, she is deeply missed. 

Sonia was a bright light at Petroglyph Elementary. One of my favorite parts of my day was walking in the office each day & seeing her beaming smile & infectious laugh! Nothing brought Sonia down. She always found a way to see the silver lining & put a positive spin on things. I’m blessed that our life paths crossed! 

OBITUARY

Sonia Marie Encinias

15 December, 1969 – 2 August, 2021

Pacific Beach – La Jolla Chapel

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