Bonita "Bonnie" Carolle Garvey
November 11, 1938 - May 1, 2026

Stephenson-Dearman Funeral Home 943 Highway 425 North Monticello, AR 71655 Map & Directions Visitation Stephenson-Dearman Funeral Home 943 Highway 425 North Monticello ,  AR 71655 5/8/2026 2:00 - 3:00 p.m. Map & Directions Funeral Services Stephenson-Dearman Funeral Home 943 Highway 425 North Monticello ,  AR 71655 5/8/2026 3:00 p.m. Map & Directions   Oakland Cemetery 800 North Hyatt St. Monticello, AR 71655 Map & Directions

Bonita Carolle Garvey, lovingly known by her nicknames "Bonnie," Nana," "Mama," and "Omma," sadly passed away surrounded by close family on May 1, 2026, in Monticello, Arkansas at the great age of 87. Born on November 11, 1938, in Petosky, MI to Ralph and Jennie Leist, Bonnie lived a life full of love, compassion, and dedication to her expansive family and friendly community.

Bonnie pursued her natural-born passion for helping others by pursuing a career as a Registered Nurse after she graduated from nursing school, and later became an Outreach Coordinator for the Southeast Arkansas Regional Library once she and her family moved to Monticello, AR. Her career was marked by care and commitment, but her greatest pride and joy came from her role as a mother to her three beautiful daughters and a grandmother to her three beloved grandchildren. She poured her heart into supporting and loving them throughout their lives.

She is survived by her oldest daughter, Colleen Handly and husband Robert; her younger daughter Corinne "Cori" Cathey; her grandchildren, Jason Handly, Ashley and Britney Cathey; her extended family Craig Handly and wife Laura; great granddaughters, Megan and Isabella "Izzy" Handly; her younger sisters, Jane Fettig, Sandra Eaton, and Cindy Kirby; and other family members who loved her dearly. Bonnie was predeceased by her youngest daughter, Chandra Garvey; her husband, Rev. Michael Lee Garvey; her parents, Ralph and Jennie Leist; and her younger sister, Jackie Capelin.

As a devoted member of the ARP Presbyterian Church, Bonnie's faith was a cornerstone of her life. She found joy in singing hymns and sharing her voice with those around her. Her giving spirit extended beyond the church walls as she was known for her generosity and compassion toward everyone she encountered.

Bonnie had a creative soul that shone through in her hobbies. She enjoyed sewing clothing, cross-stitching interesting patterns, solving crossword puzzles, and immersing herself in books. Her enjoyment for cooking brought the family together during countless lunches and dinners where she delighted everyone with meals made with love. Her grandchildren fondly remember the whimsical animal and character shaped pancakes she would lovingly prepare for them on some mornings.

Family gatherings were central to Bonnie's life. Whether it was a holiday or an ordinary day of the year, she treasured every moment spent with loved ones. She also found great pleasure in traveling with family members to create lasting memories together.

Bonnie had a deep appreciation for nature's beauty. She adored animals of all kinds and found joy in watching butterflies flutter by or hummingbirds hover gracefully near flowers. A cup of coffee waws always close at hand as she embraced each day with warmth and kindness.

Her legacy is one of love. Love for her family, friends, faith, and the simple joys of life. Those who knew Bonnie will forever cherish the memories of her laughter, smile, generosity, and unwavering devotion to those she held dearly.

May Bonita Carolle Garvey's memory bring comfort to all who were fortunate enough to know her. Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m. on May 8, 2026, in the Stephenson-Dearman Funeral Chapel in Monticello, AR. A visitation will be held from 2:00 - 3:00 p.m. preceding the funeral service. A graveside gathering will follow shortly after the funeral in Oakland Cemetery in Monticello, AR. All are invited to join Bonnie's family and friends there.