Donna Bonnett

"It is more blessed to give than to receive." Acts 20:35

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Donna Jeanne Bonnett on November 19, 2024 at the age of 99. She was born in Fairfield, Iowa September 3, 1925. Donna truly knew that it was more blessed to give than to receive. Her generosity knew no bounds. She was not only generous in life, but also in death as an organ donor. Donna was a loving mother and grandmother and a beautiful soul who would help anyone. Her radiant smile lit up any room she entered. She enjoyed growing roses and desert plants. She lived life to the fullest and especially loved spending time with her family and in her garden. 

Although Donna is gone, she will live in our hearts forever. Remembered too is her frequent phrase, "other than this, I'm fine."

She is survived by her children, David Bonnett and wife Pennie, and Patte Bonnett Williams and her husband David Williams; sisters, Shirly Phillips Danks, Sue Phillips Ellwanger, and Judy Phillips Bishop. She is survived by several loving nieces, nephews, and grandchildren.

Preceded in death by parents, Otis King Phillips and wife Mildred Simons Phillips; husband, Kenneth Bonnett; sons, Stephen Allen Bonnett and Mark Randall (Randy) Bonnett; brother, Robert Warren (Red) Phillips; brothers-in-law, Russell Danks, Wayne Ellwanger, and Charles Bishop.

Donna met the love of her life and beloved husband, Kenneth Bonnett while attending Fairfield High School. They married after her graduation in 1944. Ken and Donna were married for 22 years before his death in 1966. Donna never re-married. She was known for her strong will, unwavering determination, and love and support for her family. 

Shortly after Ken's death, Donna returned to school to update her education then acquired a position on the staff of Albuquerque Boys Academy. Upon retiring from the Boys Academy, Donna moved to Imperial Beach, California to be with Stephen who had recently retired from the US Navy. They jointly purchased a house in which they lived until 2005. 

Donna then moved to Gilbert, AZ and purchased another house in which she lived until 2020. Upon having a stroke just before Christmas 2020 she was left partially paralyzed requiring her to be in a Senior Home and under hospice care. Our love, gratitude and appreciation is extended to Sabi Ganesh, owner of Caring Hearts Assisted Living, who provided a caring environment with love and attention. Hospice of the Valley is also appreciated for their attention to her health details.

Services will be at interment in the Santa Fe National Cemetery, Santa Fe, New Mexico