Sondra Ailean Thomas

Sondra Ailean Colley Thomas was born in Sacramento, California on January 28, 1952 to the late Nathaniel S. and Jerlean J. Colley. She graduated from C.K. McClatchy Senior High School where she was elected head cheerleader. She was the first African American to hold that position. Sondra was one of two graduation speakers. Her speech was about time and how quickly it can pass.

After graduation, Sondra moved to Alabama where she attended Tuskegee University, majoring in elementary education. She continued with her love of cheerleading through her college days. While in Alabama, she entered the Miss America pageant, and went on to represent the city of Tuskegee in the Miss Alabama pageant.

Sondra returned to Sacramento and continued her studies in education at California State University in Sacramento. Sondra worked in education until her illness left her unable to continue to work in her chosen field.

Sondra had a love of fashion and design, and worked as a model while she lived in D.C. She also had a beautiful singing voice, and played the piano with amazing talent.

Sondra leaves to mourn her passing, three sisters Jerlean Evelyn (Jack), Ola Marie (Alfred), Natalie Suzanne, and one brother Nathaniel Jr. She also leaves ten nieces and nephews, several great-nieces and great-nephews, cousins and friends.

Sondra loved her family and had a ready smile at any time. She will be missed by all who knew her. Sondra's memory burns brightly in our hearts.