BONNIE LOU JOHNSON

SPRING HILL, Fla./BRANDON, Vt. — Bonnie Lou Johnson, age 84, passed peacefully on Nov. 4, 2024, with her son Tim by her side, in Oak Hill Hospital, in Spring Hill, Fla..

Bonnie was born in Middlebury on June 30, 1940. She was the daughter of the late Frank and Dorothy (King) Miller of Brandon, Vt. She grew up in Brandon and later spent most of her life at Lake Dunmore, East Middlebury, and Leicester areas. Additionally, she and her husband, Charles, enjoyed over 30 years at their winter home in Spring Hill, Fla. Many winter holidays were also spent with her son, Tim, in Las Vegas, Nev.

Bonnie completed her education in Brandon, attending Brandon Grade School and graduating from Brandon High School with the Class of 1958. She maintained contact with many of her friends and classmates over the years. Bonnie remained actively involved with her class, assisting with various projects and organizing class reunions. Before her retirement, Bonnie and Charlie owned and operated Johnson’s Furniture House and Johnson’s Mini Storage in East Middlebury. Prior to that, Bonnie worked for her father, Frank, at Miller & Ketcham Furniture Store in Brandon. Early in her career, Bonnie held several different jobs and was always busy doing whatever it took to help support her family.

Bonnie will be remembered for her positive attitude toward life, always striving to see the best in any situation. Her sharp wit and enthusiasm made her eager to step up and take the lead on any project presented to her. She consistently maintained her appearance and kept up with the latest trends in hair and clothing, as this was very important to her. An exceptional cook, Bonnie loved preparing a variety of dishes and was never afraid to try something new. She was always willing to share what she had with others, often surprising them with a special meal. Bonnie was typically one of the first to arrive with a meal for someone in need, regardless of the circumstances. Her famous homemade baked beans, apple pie, and holiday treats were always highly sought after by her close friends.

Bonnie developed her passion for music early in life during her school years, where she learned to play several instruments, including the piano, trombone, and voice. She quickly excelled in both music and singing, advancing to play the organ and even larger church organs. Bonnie possessed a voice that stood out distinctly whenever she sang at events. Over the years, she was invited to perform at numerous local churches and was also chosen to sing and play at countless weddings and funerals, both locally and in neighboring towns and states.

Bonnie was always busy, and no grass ever grew under her feet. Her favorite place in her home, of course, was the kitchen. She took pride in the appearance of her residences and was constantly engaged in activities, both inside and out, to keep them in top-notch condition. Armed with her handy toolbox, she was unafraid to tackle any job, even if it meant calling her son Tim for advice. And yes, she genuinely enjoyed washing her windows. Her homes were always beautifully decorated for any upcoming holiday. She loved the outdoors, and fishing was a relaxing hobby that she truly enjoyed, particularly on Lake Dunmore. She caught several prize fish both during the summer and especially while ice fishing.

Throughout the years, she was a member of numerous organizations and groups. She chaired many fundraising events and dinners for local churches. She initiated several Prayer Shawl groups at various churches, both locally and in Florida. She remained active with the Order of the Eastern Star No. 80 in Brandon and the Women’s American Legion Unit No. 27 in Middlebury. Bonnie was steadfast in her beliefs; she was opinionated and articulate, yet she was always upfront and honest about them. She did not shy away from engaging in a good debate on any topic.

She would do anything for her family and friends, always prioritizing them in her life. It did not matter whether she agreed with someone or not; in times of need, Bonnie could always be counted on to help in any way she could. Bonnie was an incredible wife, mother, grandmother, and friend who will be deeply missed forever.

Surviving Bonnie are her son, Timothy F. Johnson of Las Vegas, Nev.; granddaughter, Jena McKinstry of Daytona Beach, Fla.; and grandson, Travis LaDuke of Shoreham, Vt. She was predeceased by her husband, Charles E. Johnson, sons Daniel C. Johnson and Jeffery C. Johnson; and grandson Daniel C. Johnson.

A memorial service in celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, May 17, at 11 a.m., at the Brandon Congregational Church. The Reverend Barry Tate, will officiate. Following the funeral, a service of farewell will be conducted by members of Marble Chapter Order of The Eastern Star No. 80. The graveside committal service and burial will follow in the family lot at Pine Hill Cemetery. After the ceremony, friends are invited to join in a time of fellowship and remembrance, at the Brandon American Legion. In accordance with Bonnie’s wishes, there will be no formal calling hours.

Bonnie requested that, instead of sending flowers, donations be made in her memory to the following organization that was near and dear to her heart; Shari’s Shepherd Rescue, which cares for and helps find loving homes for German Shepherds: Shari’s Shepherd Rescue, 6935 N. Aliante Parkway, Suite 104-170, N. Las Vegas, NV 89084

Arrangements by Miller & Ketcham of Brandon.◊