Sonja Diane Nelson, 84, of Taylorville, IL, passed away on Sunday, August 3, 2025, at Taylorville Care Center. She was born on December 3, 1940, in Allenville, IL, to the late Vernon G. and Mabel L. (Maxedon) Sutton. Sonja married Bill Nelson, and he preceded her in death after many loving years together.

Sonja graduated from Assumption High School and continued her education at Sparkes Business College. She began her career working as a secretary for St. Vincent Hospital, now Taylorville Memorial Hospital, where she worked for twenty-five years. After her time spent at the hospital, Sonja worked for the Christian County YMCA, and after fifteen years, she retired. She was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother, and is dearly missed.

She is survived by her son: William Douglas “Doug” (Susan) Nelson, of Taylorville, IL; daughter: Renata (Anthony) Rimkus of Taylorville, IL; grandchildren: Jeremiah (Savannah) Rimkus, Trisha (Michael) Sylvester, Elizabeth Nelson, Becky Nelson, Michael Nelson; as well as her great-grandchildren: Jonathan, Luna, MJ, Josie, Addie, and Evie.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her brother, Vernon Sutton.

Per Sonja’s wishes, cremation rites have been accorded, and no services will be held at this time. Private inurnment will be held at a later date, at French Cemetery in Allenville, IL. 

Sutton Memorial Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Please sign our online guestbook at suttonmemorialhome.com.