Bonnie J. Willis

Bonnie J. Willis, 78, passed away on Sunday, December 7, 2025, at her residence in Lafayette, Indiana surrounded by her loved ones.

Bonnie was born on December 13, 1946, in Howell, MI, to the late Jack and Helen “Jean” (Craft) Paton.

Bonnie graduated from Howell High School in 1964.

In November 1964, Bonnie met Charles “Chuck” Willis of Pinckney, MI. On August 28, 1965, Bonnie and Chuck married in Howell, MI. They celebrated 60 wonderful years of marriage this year.  In 1972, Bonnie and Chuck built their beautiful family home in Brighton, MI. There are many special memories shared with family and friends spending time at the Willis’. Bonnie and Chuck sold their family home in 2005.

Bonnie worked at Howell State Hospital until 1974. Then became a stay-at-home mom, who loved taking care of her family, home, dogs, yard, and garden.

Bonnie and Chuck enjoyed spending time with friends, whether they were boating, playing cards, bowling, yearly canoe trips, and the Willis Golf Open. They took trips with friends and family throughout the years.

Later in life, after Chuck retired, they spent their summers at their cottage on Lake St. Helen, in Michigan and winters in Panama City Beach, FL.

Bonnie and her grandson, Jack, had a very special bond and Bonnie babysat Jack for many years. She would attend all of Jack’s school and sporting events, go to movies, and would attend WWE shows and be cheering right alongside Jack. They were known as, “Super Gma and Super Gson”.

Bonnie and Mary loved spending time together, whether it was shopping, going out to eat, or working outside. As long as they were together!

Bonnie and Chuck were married 60 years and had a love like no other. They would spend their days together all day. Bonnie in her bed reading a book while watching tv and Chuck sitting in his recliner right next to her while on his computer.  Bonnie will be dearly missed! And her family loves her so very, very much!

Surviving is her husband, Charles “Chuck” Willis of Lafayette, IN her daughter, Mary (Mike) Fraser of Lafayette, IN, and her grandson, Jack Zell of Lafayette, IN.

Bonnie was preceded in death by her parents, her son, Joseph L. Willis, and her brother, John D. Paton.

There will be no services at this time.

Memorial contributions may be made to: Dementia Society of America, Alzheimer’s Association, or NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness).