The St. Croix community is mourning the death of Sonya Hough, the original owner of Sonya Ltd., who died on March 6 at the age of 95. Her family shared the news in a press release.
Born and raised in San Diego, California, Sonya made St. Croix her home in 1964, where she and her husband, David, built a life filled with artistry, creativity, and adventure. Together, they opened “The Corner Shop,” selling art supplies, batiks, and handmade jewelry. From this foundation, Sonya Ltd. was born, growing into a beloved family business that thrived for over 50 years.
Sonya’s legacy lives on through her artistry, most notably the iconic “St. Croix Hook Bracelet,” which has become an enduring symbol of the island. She was a visionary entrepreneur, a spirited host who welcomed guests from all walks of life into her home, and an adventurous soul who traveled the world. An accomplished markswoman, she was the oldest member of the Virgin Islands Women’s Pistol Team and competed in the Pan-American Games.
Following Hurricane Hugo, Sonya, David, and her stepdaughter Diana designed the “Hugo Bracelet” and “Hurricane Hunters Bracelet” — symbols of the resilience and strength of those who endured the storm. These designs became cherished keepsakes, marking each challenge and triumph faced by the people of St. Croix.
Sonya continued to travel extensively even after her husband’s death, exploring places as remote as Madagascar and Bhutan. In her later years, she relocated to Winter Park, Florida, for better access to health care, where she remained until her death.
During her time in Winter Park, Sonya was highlighted in a local blog, which can be read by clicking here.
On a blog post, she said, referencing her late husband’s artwork, “If you don’t diversify and do different things, you’re not growing,” Sonya Hough said. “Anyone can create one great painting. But if you stop there, you miss your potential.”
New owners of Sonya, Ltd., which includes former Sen. Nellie O’Reilly, highlighted the death of Sonya on the company’s Facebook page. The post said, “It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Sonya, a remarkable soul whose passion, kindness, and creativity touched so many lives. As the founder of Sonya LTD, she brought beauty into the world – not just through her designs, but through the warmth and love she shared with everyone around her. Sonya’s spirit will live on in the pieces she created, in the stories she told, and in the countless hearts she inspired. Though she is no longer with us, her legacy shines as brightly as the jewelry she so lovingly crafted.”
Under the post, commenters shared their favorite Sonya memories and jewelry that they’ve purchased from the beloved jeweler. Her granddaughter Jenika Katz also shared some words and said, “Grandma was a wonderful woman, and I’m so glad she got to meet her great-granddaughter. It’s really nice to read everyone’s memories of her.”
Sonya is survived by her children, Claudia, Pamela, and Arthur, and her stepchildren, Diana and David. She also leaves behind six grandchildren — Melissa, Vanessa, Dennis, Jenika, Liam, and Myles — and two great-grandchildren, Willow and Tavi.
A bold and feisty spirit, a generous patron of the arts, and an outspoken advocate, Sonya Hough will be dearly missed.
In lieu of a service, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the St. Croix Animal Welfare Center, honoring Sonya’s lifelong love for animals.
