Heartfelt tributes have been paid to Sonia Exelby, a 32-year-old British woman whose body was discovered in Florida last October, following her disappearance from her Southsea home. Her family has described her as a "truly beautiful person, inside and out," highlighting her gentle soul and profound compassion.
Ms Exelby, originally from Porchester, Hampshire, was reported missing from her Southsea residence on 12 October 2025. Investigations by Hampshire Constabulary quickly established that she had travelled outside the UK prior to the report. Tragically, her body was found in Marion County, Florida, on 17 October 2025.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement subsequently arrested Dwain Hall, 53, a local man, on suspicion of first-degree murder and kidnapping in connection with Ms Exelby's death. Hall was already in custody on suspicion of fraudulent use of credit cards and unlawful use of a two-way communication device, charges also linked to Ms Exelby's case. A trial is expected to take place later this year.
In a poignant statement, Ms Exelby's family remembered her as the youngest of six children, "deeply loved by all her siblings." They spoke of her incredible talent as a pianist and singer, describing her voice as that of an angel. "Being around her felt special - she brought a calmness and warmth that made everything feel a little lighter," they shared, adding that she was a rare individual who made others feel completely safe and accepted.
The family's tribute also highlighted her 15-year partnership, the joy she brought to her nieces and nephews, and her circle of friends who remembered her as beautiful and caring. "We will never get over losing her which has left an emptiness in our lives that can never be filled," the statement concluded. Hampshire Constabulary confirmed they are assisting US authorities and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) with the ongoing investigation, with specially trained officers providing support to Ms Exelby's family in the UK.