Ira “Sonny” Vance

Ira “Sonny” Vance was an entrepreneur, successful business owner and an active community leader who made a great impact upon those desiring to pursue their dreams.

Vance owned and operated Sonny’s Barbershop, which was located at 410 South Parramore Avenue for more than 30 years. Throughout these years, he mentored many young barbers who would eventually open their own barbershops – one in particular was Betty’s Barbershop, which is likely one of the first African American owned barbershops in Orlando.

Vance was involved in civic organizations, such as the City of Orlando Municipal Planning Board, having served two full terms from the period of June 1974 through June 1980. He was also recognized by the State of Florida on August 23, 1972, and appointed by Governor Reubin Askew, to be a member of Florida Barber Sanitary Commission, State at Large, for State of Florida Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation for a term of one year.

In appreciation of contributions to civic service and advancement, Vance was recognized as “Citizen of the Day” by WOKB. Vance also received recognition from the Tupperware Convention Center for the working relationship they had with him.

Lastly, Vance’s barbershop was recognized as an official agency for all events presented at the Tangerine Bowl and at the Bobb Carr Municipal Auditorium.