Sonja Dye 1938-2026

She was born April 9, 1938, in Youngstown. “Sonie” grew up in Poland, Ohio, graduating as valedictorian of her high school class and later attended Mount Union College. She graduated magna cum laude with a B.A. in education, teaching in the Canfield schools until her sons were born, then returning to teaching later in the Austintown schools.

Sonja was a very active volunteer throughout her life, serving with the Easterseal Society, Austintown PTA, Youngstown Area Arts Council, Alpha Chi Omega sorority, Mount Union College Board of Trustees, National Cabinet of Mount Union Women, Junior League of Youngstown, Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges, Boy Scouts and Camp Fire in many capacities. She was also a very active volunteer at First Covenant Church (Boardman) and Pioneer Memorial Presbyterian Church (Solon). At Pioneer, she served as an elder, preschool treasurer, finance team member, pavilion team member and greeter. She was a lifelong learner, enjoying Bible studies, book clubs, theater and mahjongg in recent years.

Sonie was the beloved wife of 27 years to the late Louis John Dye. Her survivors include children, Kurt (Susan) and Kent (Betsy) Helfrich, Kevin Dye, Davara (Daniel) Potel and Louis Dye; grandchildren, Tim (Lauri) Helfrich, Kendra Helfrich, Evan (Shannon) Helfrich, Elizabeth (Tom) Beaubien, Morgen Dye, Jennifer (Simon) Weller, Cameron Dye, Lindsey (Brian) Iufer and Logan Dye; great-grandchildren, Corinne, Delaney and Samuel; sister, Carolyn Mulroy (the late James); Kevin Mulroy, Sean (Liz) Mulroy, Amy (Wayne) Gida, Christopher (Melanie) Helfrich, Sara (Ryan Van Sickle) Helfrich, Emily Thibodeau, Diane Allen, Maira Jaramillo and Kathy Dye.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 31 years, Edward Lawrence Helfrich Jr., and her parents, Herman and Gladys Olson.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate contributions in memory of Sonja to Pioneer Memorial Presbyterian Church (www.pioneersolon.org/).

A memorial service will be held at Pioneer Memorial Presbyterian Church at 11 a.m. June 6, 2026.

Interment will be in Poland Riverside Cemetery.

Arrangements by Murphy Funeral Home, Solon. Please sign the funeral home Tribute Wall at www.murphyfamilyfuneralhome.com.

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