Sonja M. Roberts, 87, passed away at the Billings Clinic in Billings Montana with her family by her side on August 24, 2026.

Sonja was born on February 15, 1939, in Spearfish, South Dakota. She was the daughter of John P. W and Irene Winn. She was the eldest of three children.

In 1956, Sonja married Richard V. Roberts in Rapid City. On March 16, 2026, they celebrated 70 years together. Together they raised three children: Mona, Mike and John.

Sonja was a teacher for many years in Sheridan County District 2. Sonja graduated from University of Wyoming with a BA and then with a Masters of Education from Lesley College on August 29, 1990. Her greatest joys were teaching her students, being with friends and spending time with her family, whom she loved dearly.

Sonja and her husband enjoyed traveling around the US with friends and relatives. In her younger years she enjoyed rock climbing until Richard (Dick) told her to “get off the rocks.” She loved bird watching and was a member of the Audubon Society for many years. She was also a board member of the Sheridan County Museum and enjoyed her many tasks there. In addition, she gave tours for several years at the Kendrick Mansion. Sonja was a talented seamstress, crocheting and knitting. She used her skills to create many things. She especially enjoyed creating handmade things for her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Sonja loved collecting Ethan Allen furniture for her home as well as Alladin/Kerosene lamps. Sonja was an avid reader of which Gone With The Wind was her favorite, of which she read many times. She also liked printings and sketches by Hans Cleiber and William Bill Garland. Sonja was preceded in death by her parents, siblings and by her three children. She is survived by her loving husband, Richard V. Roberts of Sheridan, Wyoming, Grandchildren, Ronald Roberts of Texas, Jynicka Roberts of Alabama, Richard Roberts of Nebraska and Jarett Roberts of Billings Montana as well as 7 great-grandchildren and 2 great- great-grandchildren, as well as numerous relatives and friends.

On Wednesday September 2, 2026, a Public Viewing will take place at the Holy Name Catholic Church at 10:00 a.m., with A Rosery at 10:30 a.m., and Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. A Reception to immediately follow at 12:00 (noon) in the Parish Hall.

Interment will take place in the Elk's section of the Sheridan Municipal Cemetery at 1:00 p.m.

‍

‍