Darlene Michelle Sonnier

Darlene Michelle Sonnier, 61, of Kansas City, Missouri, passed away peacefully on May 21, 2025, at the Kansas City Hospice House, surrounded by the love of her family.

Darlene was born on August 30, 1963, in Kansas City, Missouri, to Richard Lee Henderson Sr. and Orene Louise (LaMasters) Henderson.  She is preceded in death by both of her parents.

Darlene graduated from Southeast High School and went on to attend Concorde Career College, where she earned her certification in phlebotomy.  Her dedication to healthcare led her to a fulfilling 30-year career as a phlebotomist, beginning at Labcorp and later continuing at Swope Health. Darlene retired in 2021, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and excellence in patient care.

A proud Kansas City native, Darlene had a deep love for her community and its traditions. She enjoyed creating beautiful ceramic pieces, cheering on the Kansas City Chiefs, playing cards, and attending lively family gatherings. She especially treasured time spent at the Isle of Capri, where her luck and laughter were equally contagious. Above all, her greatest joy came from being with her husband, children, and grandchildren, whom she adored.

Darlene was raised in the Baptist faith and later converted to Catholicism in 1989 upon marrying the love of her life, Dreck Sonnier, on July 20, 1989. Their marriage was a beautiful partnership that spanned 35 joyful and devoted years.

Darlene’s memory lives on through her loving husband, Dreck Sonnier; her four children: Kristina Henderson, Dreck Sonnier Jr. (Luma), Ronnie Hargraves Sr., and Kyia Rooney (Mike); her grandchildren: Ronnie Hargraves Jr., Daphne Sonnier, Kamirrah Briscoe, Dreck Sonnier III, and Phoenix, and her precious great-grandchild, Ronnie Hargraves III. She is also survived by her siblings: Bettie Henderson, Orene Tolbert, and Richard Henderson Jr., as well as a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Darlene’s warmth, strength, and vibrant spirit touched all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.