Sarone Sunraa

On Wednesday, November 5, 2025 Sarone Sunraa returned to the love and light of our Creator. Born Patricia S. Cryer, the first of seven children born to Ora and Albert W. Holmes on April 3, 1951, in New Orleans, Louisiana. She attended L. B. Landry High School, class of 1969. Always curious, aiming for excellence and the finer things in life, she graduated from Stevenson Academy of Hair Design, where she excelled in the Esthetician Certification Program. After completing Stevenson Academy, Sarone relocated to Seattle, Washington, in the early 70’s where she became an executive assistant and the Seattle Maritime Princess in 1974. Soon after Sarone and her business partner opened Sunraa Expressions. “The Essence of Excellence”, a Hair Design and Total Hair/Skin Salon. Returning to New Orleans in 1985, Sarone opened Gallery of Braids Salon and Spa. The Gallery of Braids was the first African American-owned Aveda Concept salon in New Orleans where she practiced healing arts and hair care services. Sarone was a member of the National Braiders Guild and has been recognized nationally as a pioneer and master braider. Sarone was not only a braider but a natural hair care instructor, teaching and inspiring many of the current braiders in the city of New Orleans and beyond. She was also a natural hair care stylist to the stars, including the late Ms. Cicely Tyson, Ms. Yolanda Adams, Mr. Eric Benet, Mr. David Allen Coe, Ms. Debbie Morgan, and members of the Winans family. She made her mark in her community and the world by helping people to embrace their natural power and beauty. When clients sat in Sarone's chair, they knew they were valued, accepted, seen, heard, and deeply cared for. Sarone guided women to appreciate their beauty and uniqueness. She was EXTRA ordinary; her hands and chair manner with her clients were anointed. Sarone was a protector and champion for children. She volunteered at the Children’s Hospital, reading to children and visiting with them. Gaining her Reiki Level I and II Practitioner Certification several years ago, Sarone believed in miracles and was an avid student of the Landmark Forum, as well as a member of The Source, formerly known as Samurai. Sarone loved to cook for and with her grandchildren, teaching them her unique recipes. She enjoyed traveling and entertaining with her beloved sister/friends. She loved charcuterie, chocolate, cheese, and wine. She was the life of the party. Sarone is preceded in death by her parents, Ora Menniefield Cryer-Holmes and Albert Wilma Holmes, her Aunts Josephine Menniefield Davis, and Emelda Guichard Barrios; Uncle Leon Guichard, her sisters Adrianne Williams, Rosetta Bryant, and dear, dear nephews Desi and Lamar Bryant. She is survived by her beloved daughter, Coti Sterling Gayles, and her grandchildren Nasir, Nandi, Naim, and Noah. Her treasured godmother affectionately called “Nannan”, Mrs. Jean Sanchez. Her siblings: Gayle Cryer, Carl Cryer, Katherine Mann, Peggy Granger (Jack), her god brother Richard Sanchez (Kathy), beloved nieces and nephews include Thaddeus Williams, Jeffery Williams, Michael Cryer, Justin Cryer, Brittani Cryer, Cori Cryer, Cherese Cryer, Nyechia (Tekendrick) Bryant-Wesley, Tass Green Sr. (Shani), Iren Paul, Nashiekieta Mann, and Tre Mann. Her time caring for her cousin Kyle Borne (Aunt Joe’s grandson) was dear to her; they shared a love language. Sarone was also honored to be the godmother of Yahti Wooten and Ali Williams. The family is hosting a Memorial Service celebrating the life of Sarone SunRaa on Saturday November 22, 2025 at Beautiful Zion Baptist Church at 10:30 am. In lieu of flowers donations can be sent to Covenant House of New Orleans to contribute to their mission of supporting vulnerable women and children. Cremation Arrangements by D.W. Rhodes Funeral Home, 3933 Washington Ave., New Orleans, LA 70125. Please visit www.rhodesfuneral.com to sign the online guestbook, share memories and condolences with the family.

Sarone Sunraa

November 3, 2025