Bonnie Jean Willis, 88, passed away Saturday, January 4, 2020 in Mesa, Arizona. She was born December 20, 1931. Bonnie graduated from Mesa High School in 1952 and shortly thereafter met the love of her life, Bob Willis at the Mezona, a dance hall that was the heart of Mesa’s social life for 63 years and where a large percentage of the city’s couples met and got engaged. They were married on June 12, 1954 and last year celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary. Bob and Bonnie had wonderful memories in their early married years together, living in different places while Bob served in the Army. Her all-time favorite was Pacific Grove, CA where she spent a lot of time at the beach. Bonnie retired from Chase Bank (formerly Valley National) after 40 years of service and was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints where she served in many positions. She especially enjoyed the years she served as 1st Counselor in the Primary Presidency where she grew the most and that kindled her very social nature. Bob and Bonnie built their home in 1960, raised their family there and never left it. Bonnie was loved and respected by everyone who knew her. She was a loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother who always put needs of her family before her own.
Bonnie was preceded in death by her son, Brian, in 2014. She is survived by her husband J. Robert, son, Chris; daughter, Connie; son, Steve; late son Brian’s wife Lucy, 8 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.
The service will be held on Friday, morning, January 10 from 11:00 – 12:00 p.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, located at 1345 E. University in Mesa. There will be a viewing one hour prior to the service.
Mrs. Willis will truly be missed. She was the perfect Role model, always thought of others first and always made me feel welcome. She had a blessed life with love all around her. She truly is a super hero. May God wrap his arms around all of her family and friends and help them to heal with the fond memories they cherish of her and celebrate her life she shared with us. It’s been a blessing being a part of it and knowing Bonnie. May you rest in heavenly peace. Norm. Charlie. Jacob and Ian.
I a so happy that I had the privilege to take care of Bonnie, in the latona ward. I truelly enjoyed serving Bob and Bonnie. I will miss her, remember her sweet self that vcd she was and is.