Sonia V. Gomez

Sonia Gomez, lovingly known as Bagonia, Bagone, or simply Niña, passed away on August 30, 2025, in Port Saint Lucie, Florida, at the age of 56. Born on July 27, 1969, in New York City, Sonia lived a life full of heart, humor, and quiet strength.

Sonia was a New Yorker through and through, raised in the rhythm of the city, shaped by the energy of its streets, and anchored by the love of her tight-knit family. She attended Saint Rita's Roman Catholic Parochial School, St. John's Preparatory School, the Laboratory Institute of Merchandising (L.I.M. College), and The City College of New York. Her love of fashion, evident from an early age, led her to iconic retail institutions like B. Altman's, Bloomingdale's, Macy's on 34th Street, and Lord & Taylor. Later in life, she brought her work ethic and compassion to the Fort Pierce Utilities Authority in Fort Pierce, Florida.

Sonia found sunshine not just in weather but in life. Drawn to the warmth of Florida during a vacation, she made it home, falling in love with its skies, beaches, and pace. She filled her days with music, Madonna on repeat, 80’s hits in the background, and salsa or merengue lifting her spirits. She was a book lover, a sun-chaser, and someone who found joy in simple pleasures.

She was deeply devoted to her family and never forgot her roots. She is survived by her loving mother and sister of Queens, New York; her brother and sister-in-law of Long Island, New York; three nieces and a nephew of Long Island, New York. Sonia loved experiencing life through their eyes. She also leaves behind aunts and uncles in Orlando, Florida; cousins in Arizona, Texas, New Jersey, and New York; and paternal relatives in the Dominican Republic.

Sonia was preceded in death by her grandparents, Gloria and Guarino Garcia; her father, Pedro Gomez Sr.; her aunts, Dolores Gomez and Leida Garcia; her uncles, Abelardo Garcia Sr., Robert Garcia, and Jose Gomez; her cousin, Abelardo Garcia Jr.; and her best friend, Linda Ruiz.

Sonia’s love for family was so strong that she made her friends into family, and they knew and felt it. In the last few years, she was surrounded by a village of friends and family, who not only provided love and support but also cared for her basic needs.

Even in illness, Sonia gave herself selflessly. She walked for breast cancer awareness with her friends at FPUA and donated to cancer research after her own diagnosis. In death, she continued to give. She donated her corneal tissue to help restore the sight of three individuals: a final act of grace in a life defined by quiet generosity.

Sonia’s absence leaves a deep, lasting ache in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. Her laughter, style, strength, and presence will never be forgotten. She leaves a legacy of resilience, kindness, and warmth. She lived life her way: brave in heart, full of courage, and alive with style. May she rest peacefully.

A memorial will be held at Haisley Tribute Center, 2041 Southwest Bayshore Boulevard, Port Saint Lucie, Florida, on Saturday, September 27, 2025. Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., with a service immediately following at 5:00 p.m. All who loved and cared for Sonia are invited to celebrate her life and honor the strong woman she was.