Bonnie Robertson Stephens, a beacon of light and love, was called home to the Lord on November 2, 2025, at the age of 89, in Tallahassee, FL. Born on April 28, 1936, in Bradenton, FL, Bonnie lived a life full of grace, kindness, and unwavering faith that touched the hearts of all who knew her.
With a spirit as vibrant as the tropical plants she tended, Bonnie's life was a testament to the beauty of a life lived in service to others. She was a graduate of Manatee High School, where she shone as a Mademoiselle in the Queen's Court and led her peers with poise and pride as the Head Drum Major. Her pursuit of education led her to the University of Florida for a year, after which she returned to her roots in Bradenton to serve her community as a bank teller at the former First Federal Bank of Bradenton.
Bonnie's true calling, however, was in the home she built with her beloved husband of 66 years, Richard T. Stephens.
Together, they nurtured a family that grew to include their daughter Kathy Stephens Brantley (Tom), their son Rick Stephens (Chris), and her cherished sister Gerry Edwards.
Bonnie's legacy continues through her grandsons Dr. Thomas Hunter Brantley, Garrett Brantley (Maria), and Logan Stephens, all of whom carry forward her nurturing spirit and loving heart.
Mrs. Stephens was preceded in death by her parents, Rut and Edna Robertson, who instilled in her the Christian values that guided her life. As a devoted member of Bradenton First Baptist Church, alongside Richard, she shaped young minds and souls as a 6th-grade Sunday School teacher. Their home was a hub of warmth and fellowship, hosting cookouts and gatherings that strengthened the fabric of their church community.
In their golden years, Bonnie and Richard became Charter Members of the First Baptist Church of Blairsville, GA, where they joyfully served on the Welcoming Committee to help nurture the church, allowing it to continue to grow. Bonnie's flair for decorating and her skill in making flower arrangements adorned the church and brought so much joy to many.
Bonnie's love for the outdoors was evident in the numerous camping trips she enjoyed with her family in their pop-up Coleman camper. Retirement was a 21-year celebration of life at their mountain house they acquired in 1999 in Blairsville, GA, where Bonnie's decorating and talents with greenery flourished.
To describe Bonnie as friendly, thoughtful, and loving is to capture only a glimpse of her radiant soul. She lived by the words of Mother Teresa: "Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love." Bonnie's life was a mosaic of small acts of great love that created a masterpiece of faith and devotion.
In the last few years of her life, the Stephens opted to give up their mountain house the family referred to as "Momma's Cottage" and returned to their beloved Bradenton. After three years of home-based care, they opted to become residents of The Gables Assisted Living Facility in Tallahassee, Florida, under the watchful eye of their daughter, the expert care of facility staff, and the joy provided by activity coordinators.
Bonnie Robertson Stephens leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and the sweet fragrance of a life well-lived. Her memory will be cherished and kept alive in the hearts of those who were blessed to know her. As we celebrate her journey home, we take solace in the knowledge that she is now at peace in the eternal garden of the Lord.
A Visitation will be held on Thursday, November 13, 2025, from 2 PM–4 PM at Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd Street West, Bradenton, FL 34209. A Graveside Service will follow on Friday, November 14, 2025, at 10 AM at Sarasota National Cemetery, 9810 State Rd 72, Sarasota, FL 34241.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made in Bonnie's name to the Youth Program of Bradenton First Baptist Church.
Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd Street West, Bradenton, FL 34209, is in charge of arrangements.
