Obituaries

Sonia Justina Rios Marquez

9/21/1954 - 7/16/2026

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Obituary For Sonia Justina Rios Marquez

Sonia Justina Rios Marquez, age 71, was called to her Eternal Home on July 16, 2026, in Brandon, Florida. She was born in New York on September 21, 1954, and raised in Park Slope, Brooklyn, New York.

Sonia was the youngest of four children. Singing, creating pottery, and many arts and crafts gave her much enjoyment in her youth.

In 1982, she graduated from NYC Technical College with her Registered Nurse diploma and completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Hunter College, New York, in 1987.

Sonia enjoyed a diverse career in healthcare. She served her country as a medical specialist during the Vietnam War years; She held Staff and Supervisory positions as a civilian registered nurse caring for hospitalized adults and children; and many years as a school nurse, high school Health Science Instructor, and a Registered Nurse Educator.

Sonia retired from the School District of Hillsborough County, the School Health Corporation, and Hillsborough Community College in Tampa, Florida in 2021.

Sonia had a great love for God and for living her Christian faith to its fullest. She had a heart for The Lord and dedicated time to her daily devotional prayers and to a life-long study of the Bible.

During her retirement, the Brandon Senior Center brought her many hours of fulfillment with drawing, painting, crocheting, sewing, doll making and new friendships.

Sonia was preceded in death by her parents: Rebeca Valentin Rios, Alfredo Rios; her sister Nereda Rios Martinez, and her nephew Armando Alfredo Martinez.

Sonia is survived by her daughter Nadia Aisha Chatman, her son Joshua Shalom Marquez; siblings Alfredo Rios (Geraldine), and Raquel Rios Mirabelle (Gary); niece Nicole Rios and nephew Jose Antonio Martinez Jr.

A Celebration of Life memorial service and military honors are planned for:

Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at Bell Shoals Baptist Church. The viewing will be held at 10:00 am, with service to follow at 10:30 am.

Please send flowers to:

Bell Shoals Baptist Church: 2102 Bell Shoals Rd. Brandon, FL. 33511 (Please call church to ensure delivery to the chapel)

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Condolences

  • 07/27/2026

    Vanessa

    Sonia was always such a joy to be around. She really lived as God wanted her to, being an example to others. My heart is saddened to know she has left this world but happy knowing she is with God. See you in heaven one day my friend. ~ Vanessa from BSF

  • 07/25/2026

    Josie Campbell

    Sonia's legacy of compassion will forever echo in our hearts, a reminder that even in the face of suffering, there is room for everlasting love and healing! Lord we are grateful for the countless lives she touched , under your Grace, for the tears she wiped away , and for her God loving words that were always full of hope. I will miss my prayer warrior friend and sister in Jesus Christ . For ever and ever , Sonia will be in my heart. I will always love you . I know that you are next to our Heavenly Father in heaven as beautiful as ever. Thank you for your lovely smile , your hugs, laughter and friendship! Sonia's life was bursting with love, goodness and kindness for her children, family and friends. May God give comfort to her children. Sonia was an Angel send by God to hold my hand , pray, and never let me go. Love , tu amiga siempre, Josie, SDHC retired.

  • 07/23/2026

    Nurse Thomas

    Sonia was a SHS nurse and coworker and I have known her for a very short period of time but I do remember her smiling and caring face. I have not seen her for over five years but do remember her as such a beautiful and caring woman who had so much Love in her to share with everyone she met. Heartfelt Condolences for her loss and keeping family in my prayers. MAY SHE REST IN ETERNAL PEACE IN HEAVEN. 😇💐❤️🙏 With Love - Nurse Thomas

  • 07/23/2026

    Dora Navarrete

    My heart is with all of Sonia Justina Rios Marquez's family and loved ones during this difficult time. Sonia will always be remembered for the kindness, warmth, and love she shared with those around her. May the beautiful memories you created together bring you comfort and strength in the days ahead. Rest in peace, Sonia. You will be deeply missed but never forgotten. 🕊️🤍 Dora Navarrete/Brandon Senior Center-Supervisor

  • 07/22/2026

    Rosie Fajardo

    My sincere condolences to Nadia, Joshua and Family. Sonia was my dear friend, my Sister in Christ, and a very dear Collegue in Nursing Education at Hillsborough College. Her friendship was a ray of sunlight and deep faith. She was an advocate for anyone vulnerable or disabled. She had a warm hearty laugh and a lovely voice. Sonia was very proud of her children and often shared how much fun they all had as each one of them enjoyed cooking special meals ! Sonia I will miss you, I am blessed to have been friends with you! Love, Rosie