Patricia Arlene Bonner's Obituary
Patricia Arlene Bonner, 66, of Plano, Texas was born in Providence, Rhode Island, the youngest child of Thomas Eugene Richardson and Jean Anne Reed, both of whom preceded her in death. This beautiful, loving, charismatic, and cherished soul went peacefully home to the Lord on July 25, 2022, surrounded by her loving family.
Her pride, joy and legacy were her family that already miss her presence in their lives: her devoted husband of 24 years, Steve Bonner; son Chris Carter; daughter Melinda (Adri) Perry-Carter; stepchildren Brian and Brandon Bonner, Robert Carter, and Ericka Felker. She was the beloved “Nonnie” to twins Noah and Charleston Perry-Carter; Melissa, Danielle, and Jennifer Carter; and Lanie, Jackson, and Madison Bonner. She also leaves behind two older siblings, Jan (Chuck) Fowler and Steve Richardson, along with many nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends.
As is true for most people, there are many ways to describe them and many roles they played in life. Those who knew Pat best would probably say she was hardworking, super organized, funny, down-to-earth, caring, compassionate and loving. She wore many hats: wife, mother, nonnie, sister, friend, and businesswoman all of which she gave 110% and usually more. Pat was the one you wanted by your side in good times and bad. She would cheer you on and celebrate your accomplishments or cry with you during dark days. She often helped behind-the-scenes without need for recognition, fanfare, or even acknowledgement. Pat worked hard, played hard, and loved even harder.
In her early life, Pat was an all-around tomboy who enjoyed riding bikes, didn’t mind getting dirty and loved competition. She LOVED Elvis Presley and saw every movie he ever made…probably more than once. She was on the J.L. Long Junior High Drill Team and graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School. She loved the Mesquite Rodeo, country western dancing, cowboy boots and tight jeans. Later in life, she became a “Fanilow” and enjoyed MANY Barry Manilow concerts with her sister, Jan, traveling all over the country. In typical Pat fashion, she somehow met one of his backup singers and they got to go backstage several times to hang out with the band. Once, she even talked her way onto Barry’s private jet!
Pat attended the former Eastridge Park Christian Church in Mesquite where she played handbells and sang Tenor in the Chancel Choir because her voice was so deep. She was a devoted mother, Cub Scout leader and soccer Mom. Even as a busy single mom for many years, she rarely missed an event or game for Chris and Melinda, supporting and cheering them on all the way, even into their military/law enforcement and educational careers.
The love of Pat’s life was her husband, Steve, who she met at the bowling alley during league play. They were friends for a long time before marriage, and she loved the fact that he could always make her laugh with his corny jokes. They eloped to Las Vegas where they were married by none other than “Elvis” of course! Pat and Steve were the epitome of best friends and enjoyed family time, bowling, and riding motorcycles.
Pat’s working career began in high school, and she never stopped working; in fact, some might call her a workaholic and she excelled at every job she tackled. Years ago, she was a radio sidekick known as “Peggy Sue” on a 50’s rock-and-roll radio show, taking music requests and making public appearances in her clip-on ponytail and poodle skirt. She was a natural born leader and risk taker, which paired perfectly with her owning several successful businesses along the way. Prior to her retirement from corporate America in 2020, she was Director of Operations and led teams in Texas, California and the Philippines. By far, the most fun she ever had was when she retired and started a little side hustle on-line show called Pat’s Pearl Garden and More. She did her research, started slowly and in just 2.5 years had over 9,000 followers from all over the world. Whether you were playing the games, a silent viewer, or just there joining in on the fun, “Pat Pat” always made you feel welcome and a part of her Pearl Garden Family. She simply loved making people happy, and her smile and laugh were contagious.
And we would be remiss if we didn’t mention Pat’s love of animals. From childhood pets and throughout her life, Pat loved her fur babies, many of which were no doubt waiting anxiously for her at the Pearly Gates, including Duchess, Goose, Buffy and many others.
Whether you knew Pat personally or not, hopefully you have learned a little more about this special, truly wonderful woman that leaves a hole in our hearts but an immeasurable amount of love filling that space.
Fly high with your beloved mother, dearest one, until we meet again.
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