WICS spoke to her family about how they're feeling ahead of the trial.
As former Sangamon County deputy Sean Grayson's trial is set to begin, the Massey family says they are expecting thousands to stand outside the courthouse in Peoria to show support.
"I think there will probably be a certain amount of surprises," Sonya's cousin, Sontae Massey said. "I think people are reserving the surprise just to show support."
The family says this journey has been a long road, and they have the community to thank for sticking beside them.
"The city of Springfield became the city of Springfield that I remember," Sontae Massey said. "It's a community that comes out and they help each other, regardless of race, color, creed, political affiliation."
READ MORE | Family speaks out 1 year after Sonya Massey shot, killed by former IL deputy: 'Miss her every day'
As the Masseys finalize their travel plans for the trial, they will decide as a family if Sonya's kids, Malachi and Summer, will be in attendance.
Despite the quickly approaching date and the uncertainty of what the trial will bring, Sonya's mom, Donna Massey, says the kids are in a great space.
"They kept their jobs, they stayed in school, they just kept moving," she said.
Sonya's aunt Ramona Massey-Spaulding says it feels like everything fell into place for Summer and Malachi.
"And it was shocking because it never fell into place for me like that," she said. "You know, everything fell into place and they're even closer."
Sticking together and leaning on one another has been essential for the Masseys in their time of grief over the last year. They say their closeness will only be amplified as they step foot into the Peoria courthouse to relive the details of their loved one's death.
"You know, in any other circumstance, this would be an open and shut case," Sontae Massey said. "Justice is justice, and we hope to secure justice regardless of who's involved."
The deputy who shot and killed Massey was fired and charged with first-degree murder. Grayson has pleaded not guilty.
Earlier this year, county officials agreed to a $10 million settlement with Massey's family.